Real Madrid are reportedly planning for Carlo Ancelotti’s return to the club despite his impending departure.
Earlier this week, it was officially announced that Carlo Ancelotti will depart Real Madrid at the conclusion of the season to become the new head coach of Brazil’s national team.
The 65-year-old is set to begin his role with Brazil on May 26, immediately after the La Liga season wraps up.
Real Madrid’s current campaign has been underwhelming, with the club on course to lose the league title to arch-rivals Barcelona. Their Champions League run also ended prematurely, as they were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Arsenal.
Despite recent setbacks, Ancelotti remains one of the most accomplished managers in modern football. He now turns his attention to revitalizing the Brazilian national team on the global stage.
In an official statement, the Brazilian Football Confederation said: “This historic appointment unites two great forces — the only nation to have won five FIFA World Cups and a coach with a remarkable track record in Europe’s top competitions. We are proud to welcome Mr. Ancelotti and eagerly anticipate a new chapter of success under his guidance.”
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also expressed gratitude to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez for his cooperation in allowing Carlo Ancelotti to leave before his contract officially ended.
However, new reports suggest that Ancelotti’s departure from Madrid may not be permanent.
According to MARCA, both Real Madrid and Ancelotti are open to a reunion after the 2026 World Cup. The Spanish outlet describes the situation as a “see you later” rather than a definitive goodbye.
It’s believed that once Ancelotti’s tenure with Brazil concludes, he could return to the club in an as-yet-undetermined role. The report emphasized that neither party has closed the door on future collaboration.
“Perhaps the most important detail,” MARCA wrote, “is that the promise of a future return remains in place. Real Madrid wants to keep Ancelotti close, and that possibility is still alive.”
Ancelotti’s official farewell on May 25 is expected to be more of a tribute than a goodbye, as both he and the club recognize the need for a break—but not necessarily a permanent parting. Conversations have already taken place about his eventual return in a new capacity once his Brazil journey comes to an end.
