Overview

• Carlo Ancelotti is expected to step down as Real Madrid's head coach following the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26.
• Real Madrid has identified Bayer Leverkusen coach and former player Xabi Alonso as the preferred candidate to replace Ancelotti, with a transition expected this summer.
• Brazil's national football federation is actively negotiating with Ancelotti to take over as head coach for their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, following the dismissal of Dorival Junior in March.
• Real Madrid's recent Champions League elimination to Arsenal and inconsistent domestic performance have accelerated the club's decision to pursue a managerial change.
• The timing of the managerial transition is complicated by Real Madrid's participation in June's expanded Club World Cup, creating logistical challenges for Alonso's potential appointment.