Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid Reach Departure Agreement

Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement for his departure, with the Italian manager set to become the head coach of Brazil's national team through the 2026 World Cup. The exit follows a period of disappointing results for Madrid, including Champions League elimination by Arsenal and a Copa del Rey loss to Barcelona, which eroded club leadership's confidence in Ancelotti. Negotiations focused mainly on resolving the salary for the remaining year of his contract, which had been recently extended. Xabi Alonso is reportedly the leading candidate to replace Ancelotti, though other internal and external options are being considered. The official announcement of Ancelotti’s exit is expected soon, potentially after the upcoming match against Barcelona. Ancelotti's move to Brazil had been delayed until he finalized terms with Madrid, but he is now expected to be available for Brazil's June World Cup qualifiers.