With Carlo Ancelotti out of contract in June of 2026, it is becoming time for Real Madrid to start assessing their options to find a successor for the legendary Italian. With results being somewhat inconsistent this season, the club could look to take drastic measures and replace Ancelotti before his contract expires.
Many believe that Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso should be the one to replace Ancelotti when it comes time to move on to the next manager. However, a former Real Madrid manager, and arguably one of the best managers in history has not ruled out the possibility of returning to Los Blancos.
Former Real Madrid head coach leaves the door open for future return
In a recent interview with ESPN, former Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho did not rule out a potential return to the Santiago Bernabeu someday in the future.
When asked if he would be open to a return in the future, Mourinho said: "I'll always be a big fan of Real Madrid. They have the best coach in the world, my friend Carlo . He's doing very well."
"The future depends on what the president wants, if he wants a young coach with a big projection as Xabi or continue in the same line as Carlo, a coach with experience, or look at the youth section with Raul or Arbeloa. It depends."
Currently the head coach of Turkish side Fenerbahce, Mourinho lead Real Madrid to a La Liga title, Copa del Rey title, and Spanish Super Cup title in his time in charge from 2010-2013. He also led Real Madrid to the Champions League semi-final in 2011 but suffered a heartbreaking loss to Bayern Munich.
It remains to be known what exactly Real Madrid are looking for when it comes to Carlo Ancelotti's successor, but what is clear is that club president Florentino Perez has a massive decision on his hands to ensure the success of the clubs future.