Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has reaffirmed his commitment to the club, insisting he thrives under pressure and remains unfazed by ongoing speculation about his future.
The Italian tactician addressed the media this week ahead of a crucial Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, reiterating that pressure is part of the job and a source of motivation rather than concern.
Since rejoining Real Madrid from Everton in 2021, Ancelotti has delivered two Champions League titles and two La Liga triumphs, reaffirming his status as one of the most decorated managers in world football. However, the current season has proven more challenging. The team’s quarter-final exit from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal and a tight domestic title race have fueled rumours about his potential departure.
Ancelotti is reportedly a top target for the Brazil national team, while former Madrid player and current Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has emerged as a possible successor at the Bernabeu. Despite these links, Ancelotti remains focused on the task at hand.
“The club is aware that it has been a more complicated year than last year. Together we manage the difficulties,” he said. “The honeymoon continues. I’m very happy, very happy, with a lot of pressure, but that’s how it always is.”
The veteran coach views the heightened expectations and scrutiny as part of the territory at one of the world’s biggest football clubs.
“You see success very close and it’s normal for stress to increase, but stress is fuel for me. It doesn’t bother me—it gives me more energy to think about more things. As long as I continue to get up in the morning, everything is fine.”
Real Madrid are currently four points behind arch-rivals Barcelona in the La Liga standings, with six matches remaining. The two clubs will clash twice more this season—first in the Copa del Rey final this Saturday and again in La Liga next month.
When asked whether a domestic double could influence his future at the club, Ancelotti remained philosophical.
“In football, anything is possible. I’m not surprised by anything, so anything can happen. I don’t have any grudges against anyone or anything. I love this job. I loved it the first time, and I’m loving this second spell.”
“I’d like this to continue as long as possible. If one day it ends, I’ll be grateful and I’ll take my hat off to this club—nothing else.”
As Madrid eyes silverware in the final stretch of the season, Ancelotti’s calm leadership and love for the game could be key to navigating both the pressure and the pursuit of glory.
