End of an era: Carlo Ancelotti says goodbye to Real Madrid once again

Borussia Dortmund v Real Madrid CF - UEFA Champions League Final 2023/24
Borussia Dortmund v Real Madrid CF - UEFA Champions League Final 2023/24 | Richard Sellers/Allstar/GettyImages

Real Madrid officially announced that they will part ways with Carlo Ancelotti. Tomorrow, Ancelotti will be with Real Madrid for the last time as the Spanish team's coach.

"Carlo Ancelotti will forever be part of the great madridista family. We feel incredibly honoured to have had the chance to enjoy a coach who has helped us achieve so much success, but who has also embodied our club's values in such exemplary fashion. The Santiago Bernabéu will pay tribute to Carlo Ancelotti tomorrow, at what will be his final game as Real Madrid coach. Real Madrid wishes him and all his family the very best of luck in this new chapter of his life," the Spanish club said in an announcement.

Don Carlo also shared his feelings about this new decision ahead of the game agains Real Sociedad:

"I am honored to have had the chance to coach this club and become part of its history.

"You cannot avoid thinking about what special days these are. It is my final game and whenever a journey comes to an end, it is emotional but I am not at all sad. It is the end of a hugely important time in my life. I have tried to do all I could for this club and we have enjoyed great success together.

"I would like to thank everyone who has worked with me during my time here; my players, my president, my Board of Directors... We have had a wonderful time together and I have felt such warmth and affection. I have had the opportunity to coach some unbelievable players and the outcome has been hugely positive.

He was asked about his feelings before the last match at the Bernabeu, to which he said: "I am an emotional guy, just like my father and grandfather were. I have no problem in shedding a tear, I will not hide that. It is going to be a special day and I will be sharing it with Modric, who has been a wonderful support for me in this period. He is a fantastic player and a legend. I think it is beautiful to say goodbye alongside him."

Journalists also asked him if he had any advice for Xabi Alonso, to which he said: “I do not want to offer advice, because everyone has their own ideas about football. All I can say is that he is hugely fortunate to be Real Madrid coach. I wish him all the best, and all the luck in the world. I think he has the attributes to coach this team. I hope he enjoys it."

Farewell letter

"Today, we part ways again. Once again, I carry with me in my heart every moment of this wonderful second stint as Real Madrid manager. These have been unforgettable years, an incredible journey filled with emotions, titles, and, above all, the pride of representing this club.

Thanks to President Florentino Pérez, the club, my players, my staff, and, above all, to this unique fan base that has always made me feel like one of them. What we have achieved together will forever remain in the memory of Real Madrid fans, not only for the triumphs, but for the way we achieved them. The magical nights at the Bernabéu are now part of football history.

Now a new adventure begins, but my bond with Real Madrid is eternal.

See you soon, Madridistas.

Hala Madrid y Nada Más."

Ancelotti's Trophy Collection

In 352 matches as Real Madrid's coach, he won 249, drew 50, and lost 53 games. The legend, who managed to become "The Only One" in many categories, brought the following to the club during his years at Real Madrid:

  • La Liga (2): 2021/22, 2023/24
  • Copa del Rey (2): 2013/14, 2022/23
  • Supercopa de España (2): 2021/22, 2023/24
  • UEFA Champions League (3): 2013/14, 2021/22, 2023/24
  • UEFA Super Cup (3): 2014/15, 2022/23, 2024/25
  • FIFA Club World Cup (2): 2014/15, 2022/23
  • World's Best Club Coach (3): 2013/14, 2021/22, 2023/24
  • FIFA Intercontinental Cup Winner (1): 2023/24

Players' farewell messages

Toni Kroos, Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius Junior, Eder Militao
Borussia Dortmund v Real Madrid CF - UEFA Champions League Final 2023/24 | Marc Atkins/GettyImages
"Open letter to Carlo Ancelotti: Thank you, coach. For everything. YOU ARE THE BEST. Since your arrival in Madrid, you have changed my life as a player and as a person. You gave me confidence, you made me grow, and you were by my side at every moment, on and off the pitch. We won two Champions League titles, two La Ligas, and many other trophies… But what I value most is the way you treated me, your humility, and the way you have managed all these years. We built something beyond football. You always defended me and protected me when I needed it most. Today, it is difficult to say goodbye. The dressing room of Madrid is going to miss you. I will miss you. But at the same time, I am happy to know that we already have a date to meet again: now, wearing the shirt of the Brazilian national team together. It is destiny. I will be waiting for you in Brazil.”"
Vinicius Junior
"Mister, thank you for everything. It was a pleasure and great experience to learn from the most successful manager of our club and one of the greatest of all time. What you have taught me about life and football will stick with me always and I will be forever grateful. Good luck on your next journey, I wish you, your staff and your family nothing but happiness!"
Jude Bellingham
"My first coach in Madrid. The last coach in my career. Could not have asked for a better one. Gracias Mister."
Toni Kroos
"Grazie Mister! It has been an amazing time together - great coach, but especially an amazing human being! Thanks for everything!"
Antonio Rudiger

What is next for Ancelotti?

The Brazilian Football Federation announced last week that they had reached an agreement with Ancelotti to take over as national team coach.

Ancelotti, who will manage Brazil until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will be in charge of the national team in next month's Confederation of South American Football (CONMEBOL) World Cup Qualifying Group matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.

For Madridistas, Ancelotti is more than just a coach. He is a beloved figure who represents the spirit and passion of Real Madrid. His dedication and professionalism have earned him the respect and admiration of fans across generations.

His farewell marks the end of an era. However, his connection with the club and their supporters will remain unbreakable. Carlo Ancelotti will forever be cherished as a true legend of Real Madrid.