Real Madrid’s defeat to FC Barcelona on May 11, 2025, at the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium has marked a significant turning point for the club. The 4-3 loss, which handed Barcelona a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga with just three matches remaining, effectively ended Real Madrid’s hopes of defending their league title. In the aftermath of the game, head coach Carlo Ancelotti made a statement that shocked fans, acknowledging that his time at the club was nearing its end, saying, “My time in Real Madrid is now counted in days.”
Ancelotti’s second stint at Real Madrid, which began in 2021, was highly successful, with the coach leading the team to an extraordinary trio of titles in the 2023-2024 season, including the 15th Champions League title, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup. His ability to blend young talents like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo with experienced players such as Luka Modric and Toni Kroos earned him widespread praise. However, the 2024-2025 season has been a stark contrast, with Real Madrid struggling to maintain their dominance.
The May 11 defeat to Barcelona was the fourth consecutive loss to the Catalan club this season, following a 4-0 defeat in October 2024, a 5-2 loss in the Spanish Super Cup final in January 2025, and a 3-2 loss in the Copa del Rey final in April 2025. Barcelona’s youthful stars, led by Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski, exploited Real Madrid’s defensive weaknesses. Despite a spirited comeback attempt from Kylian Mbappé and Aurelien Tchouaméni in the second half, Real Madrid couldn’t recover from the early damage caused by Barcelona’s relentless attack.
Ancelotti admitted to the team’s defensive flaws, saying, “We could have defended better in the first half. We made significant mistakes that allowed them to score.” He also took responsibility for the tactical errors that contributed to the defeat. However, it was his comments about his future that garnered the most attention. With Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez growing increasingly disappointed with the team’s performance, particularly after their Champions League exit in April 2025, speculation about Ancelotti’s departure has been mounting. Sources suggest that former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso could be a potential successor.
Reactions from fans and commentators have been mixed. Some fans expressed frustration, calling the season a “humiliation” and criticizing Ancelotti for failing to adapt tactically against Barcelona. Others praised him for his contributions, including three Champions League titles and two La Liga championships, and acknowledged that his departure, while inevitable, was bittersweet.
As rumors swirl about Ancelotti’s next move, the Brazilian national team has long been linked with the Italian coach, with reports from 2023 suggesting they are interested in hiring him ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Alternatively, a return to club football in the Premier League or Serie A remains a possibility for the experienced coach.
With three La Liga matches left, Real Madrid is already looking ahead to the transition period that will follow Ancelotti’s departure. His time at the club, marked by durability, tactical brilliance, and a relentless pursuit of trophies, is coming to an end, leaving Madrid fans hoping that the next manager can restore the team to its former glory.
