There is a lot of uncertainty around Real Madrid at the moment but one thing is pretty clear. The club are backing Carlo Ancelotti to lead them into the future. Los Blancos left no doubt in that regard by handing the Italian manager a contract extension until 30 June 2026. The announcement has already been made on their official website.
Nobody can deny that Ancelotti has earned that extension. When he was brought back in the summer of 2021, most fans viewed it as a transitional appointment.
Instead, Ancelotti has won every trophy possible during his second spell as Real Madrid manager despite having to work within a lot of boundaries. There is very little squad depth, there a lot of youngsters and injury issues refuse to leave Los Blancos alone.
Yet, Ancelotti has found a way to deliver consistently. There are not many managers, if any, who could have done a better job under these circumstances.
Liverpool handed boost as Real Madrid make bold decision
Real Madrid's decision to hand an extension to Ancelotti is good news for Liverpool as well. They were viewed as the two most likely destinations for Xabi Alonso. But the door to Santiago Bernabeu now seems closed for at least the near future.
Of course, Liverpool surely won't be in a hurry to part ways with Jurgen Klopp. The German is one of the best managers in the club's history and has been the biggest reason behind their revival as one of England's best in recent years. His current deal is believed to run until the summer of 2026 as well.
Could a third club make a play for Alonso in the future? Perhaps teams like Chelsea and Manchester United, who have continued to struggle to find the right manager in recent times.