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Carlo Ancelotti broke down before he even stepped onto the Bernabeu pitch for the final time. The 65-year-old Italian admits he’ll cry during Saturday’s farewell. His replacement? Xabi Alonso gets the nod after 15 trophies in 6 magical seasons.
“I have no problem if I end up crying,” Ancelotti confessed Friday. “I will not hide it.”
The most successful coach in Champions League history is walking away from Real Madrid with his emotions laid bare. Saturday’s clash with Real Sociedad marks the end of an era that redefined European football.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Ancelotti’s Real Madrid legacy reads like fantasy:
- 15 trophies in 6 seasons across two spells
- 5 Champions League titles as a coach (record holder)
- 3 European Cups with Madrid alone
- 2 La Liga titles
- 2 Copa del Rey victories
- 65 years old and still emotional about goodbyes
The Italian leaves 12 months before his contract expires. Brazil’s national team couldn’t wait any longer.
Alonso Gets the Golden Ticket
Xabi Alonso will inherit the throne, though Madrid haven’t made it official yet. The 43-year-old Spaniard earned his stripes with Bayer Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten Bundesliga triumph in 2024.
“Xabi has the characteristics to coach this club,” Ancelotti declared. “I wish him all the luck in the world.”
The endorsement carries weight. Ancelotti knows what it takes to succeed at the Bernabeu pressure cooker.
Double Farewell Drama
Saturday brings double heartbreak for Madridistas. Luka Modric also plays his final Bernabeu game before departing after the Club World Cup.
“I’m sharing it with Luka,” Ancelotti smiled through the pain. “Saying goodbye along with him seems nice to me.”
The Croatian midfielder and Italian coach forged an era of unprecedented success. Their bond runs deeper than tactics and trophies.
“Eternal” Love Letter
Ancelotti penned an emotional social media goodbye that had fans reaching for tissues:
“My bond with Real Madrid is eternal. I carry in my heart every moment experienced in this wonderful second spell.”
The club’s response matched the sentiment. President Florentino Perez called Ancelotti “a true legend” who “will forever be part of the great Madridista family.”
The Bernabeu’s Master
Few coaches command respect like Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabeu. His first stint (2013-2015) delivered La Decima – Madrid’s long-awaited 10th European Cup.
His return in 2021 sparked another golden period:
- 2022: Champions League triumph
- 2024: Another European crown
- Countless memories in between
Family Genetics of Emotion
The Italian’s vulnerability stems from family DNA. “I have it in my genetics that I get emotional very quickly,” he explained. “My grandfather did that, and my father too.”
That emotional intelligence helped him manage superstars and navigate Madrid’s political minefield. Tears aren’t weakness – they’re proof of genuine connection.
Brazil’s Big Gamble
The Selecao couldn’t resist Madrid’s master tactician. They’ve waited years for this opportunity, finally prying away the coach who knows how to win when it matters most.
Ancelotti leaves European club football at his peak. Five Champions League titles. Respect from every corner of the football world. Legacy secured.
What’s Next for Madrid?
Alonso inherits a squad in transition but still loaded with talent. The pressure is immediate – Club World Cup preparations begin shortly after Saturday’s finale.
The Spaniard’s Leverkusen revolution proved he can handle expectations. Madrid’s culture demands instant success. No honeymoon period exists at the Bernabeu.
Saturday’s Emotional Finale
Expect tears at the Santiago Bernabeu. From Ancelotti. From Modric. From 80,000 grateful fans who witnessed magic.
The Italian promised honesty about his emotions. In a sport obsessed with machismo, that vulnerability makes him special.
Real Madrid’s greatest modern coach is saying goodbye. The tissues are ready. The memories are eternal.
“It will be a beautiful day,” Ancelotti concluded.
Beautiful and heartbreaking in equal measure.
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