Ancelotti closer to Real Madrid exit after defeat against Arsenal

Italian media reports that Carlo Ancelotti is ‘closer’ to leaving Real Madrid after a 3-0 loss against Arsenal, and according to Gazzetta, even a comeback in the second leg may not be enough for the Italian to save his job.

La Gazzetta dello Sport and Repubblica report that Ancelotti is ‘closer’ to leaving Real Madrid after suffering a 3-0 away Champions League defeat against Arsenal on Tuesday.

Both Italian newspapers, however, suggest that Ancelotti is expected to finish the campaign in charge of the Merengues and possibly be replaced in the summer despite having a contract until 2026.

Ancelotti closer to Real Madrid exit after defeat against Arsenal

Repubblica reports that Xabi Alonso is the leading candidate to replace ‘Carletto’ at the Bernabeu next season.

According to Gazzetta, not even qualifying for the Champions League semifinals by recovering from three goals down in the second leg quarter-final against Arsenal next week may allow Ancelotti to keep his job.

The pink paper defends Ancelotti, who Spanish media have criticised in recent days.

According to the Spanish press, Ancelotti should have shown more personality during the summer and winter transfer windows, demanding defensive reinforcements following Nacho’s exit and Carvajal’s injury midway through the season.

Gazzetta, however, argues that Ancelotti “doesn’t cry” like some of his colleagues, especially for transfer-related matters.

Gazzetta and Repubblica reiterate that Brazil remain a possible destination for Ancelotti if he leaves Real Madrid at the end of the current campaign.