Carlo Ancelotti’s Departure: A Legend Forces Florentino Pérez’s Hand

As the 2024-2025 season nears its conclusion, the debate over Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid intensifies. Former Los Blancos striker and sporting director, Predrag Mijatović, has called for a change at the helm, advocating for a younger coach to take over. Speaking on “El Cafelito,” a show hosted by Josep Pedrerol, Mijatović did not hold back in his plea to club president Florentino Pérez.

For Mijatović, this is not a matter of disrespecting Ancelotti’s legacy. The Italian tactician has cemented his place in Real Madrid history, winning an unprecedented number of trophies and proving himself as one of the greatest managers of all time. However, as the game evolves, Mijatović believes it is time for the club to look toward the future rather than dwelling on past successes.

The former Montenegrin international, who played for Real Madrid between 1996 and 1999, acknowledges Ancelotti’s achievements but insists that sentimentality should not dictate managerial decisions. According to him, no one can surpass Ancelotti in terms of silverware, given the ever-decreasing patience football clubs have with coaches today.

Despite these accolades, Mijatović argues that the 65-year-old manager has remained in charge for too long. He believes that another season under Ancelotti would result in stagnation rather than progress. To move forward, the club must inject fresh ideas into its tactical approach, and Mijatović sees Xabi Alonso as the perfect candidate to lead this new era.

“Regardless of how this season ends, Ancelotti should leave Real Madrid,” Mijatović stated emphatically. “Florentino Pérez has to make a choice. He should opt for a new direction, and if it can be Xabi Alonso, then Alonso should be the number one option.”

His rationale for this bold stance is rooted in the club’s tradition of forward-thinking football. He cites the example of Fabio Capello, a manager who, despite winning La Liga in 2007, was dismissed for not aligning with the club’s long-term vision. To Mijatović, loyalty should never come at the expense of progress, and Pérez must not hesitate to make a difficult decision.

The question remains whether Ancelotti himself sees his tenure coming to an end. Having steered Real Madrid through multiple challenges, the veteran coach is likely to resist calls for an exit, especially if he secures another major trophy this season. Yet, history suggests that Real Madrid rarely hesitates to part ways with even the most decorated managers.

Ancelotti’s impact on the club extends beyond trophies. His ability to manage egos, integrate young talent, and maintain a competitive squad has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s continued success. However, critics argue that the team now needs a manager with fresh ideas, someone capable of revitalizing the squad’s playing style.

Mijatović’s call for change resonates with a growing faction of Madridistas who fear complacency could set in if Ancelotti stays. The team has undergone a generational shift, with emerging stars like Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Eduardo Camavinga forming the backbone of the future squad. A younger, more tactically dynamic coach could be better suited to harnessing their full potential.

Xabi Alonso’s name continues to be floated as the ideal successor. The former Madrid midfielder has impressed with his managerial work at Bayer Leverkusen, showcasing a tactical acumen that blends traditional Madridista values with modern footballing principles. His deep understanding of the club, combined with his ability to develop young talent, makes him an attractive prospect for the managerial role.

Despite the arguments for change, not everyone agrees that Ancelotti’s time should be up. His supporters argue that stability is key, especially when competing against well-oiled machines like Manchester City and Bayern Munich. They contend that Ancelotti’s experience and adaptability are crucial in high-stakes encounters, where tactical naivety can be costly.

Additionally, the Italian’s relationship with key senior players, such as Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, has been vital in maintaining a winning mentality within the squad. While their roles may be reduced in the coming years, their influence in the dressing room remains significant.

Real Madrid’s hierarchy will need to weigh their options carefully. Should they prioritize continuity and experience, or is it time to embrace a bold new project under a fresh managerial vision? Florentino Pérez, known for his decisive approach, will have the final say on whether Ancelotti remains at the helm or departs as a celebrated legend.

For now, the speculation continues. With every match, the pressure mounts, and the possibility of a managerial change looms larger. If Real Madrid ends the season with major silverware, Ancelotti’s case for staying becomes stronger. If not, Mijatović’s argument for a new era might become too compelling to ignore.

Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: Real Madrid does not dwell in the past. The club thrives on evolution, reinvention, and above all, success. Whether Ancelotti is part of that future remains the biggest question heading into the next chapter of Los Blancos’ illustrious history.