Real Madrid is going through an emotional transition. As they prepare to close the season at the Santiago Bernabéu, coach Carlo Ancelotti held a heartfelt press conference where he not only said goodbye to the club, but also confirmed the name of his successor: Xabi Alonso.

Although the club has yet to make it official, the experienced Italian manager was clear and direct: “Xabi is the right one. I wish him all the luck in the world. He has the qualities needed to lead this team. I hope he enjoys it.” With those words, Ancelotti made it clear he fully trusts the former midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen coach.

"Xabi has everything to become the next leader of the Madrid bench"

Mentioning Xabi Alonso was no coincidence. A recent farewell message from Álvaro Arbeloa on social media already hinted at it, and now, with Ancelotti’s comments, it is all but confirmed that the former player is ready to take charge of the Spanish giants. “I won’t give advice because every coach has their own idea of football, but coaching Real Madrid is a privilege. I’m sure Xabi will be up to the challenge,” added the coach.

In his farewell, Ancelotti avoided any criticism toward the board regarding the lack of reinforcements despite an injury-plagued season. “I don’t know what needs to change. The club has everything it needs to remain competitive,” he said.

He also emphasized the pressure Xabi Alonso will face from day one: “There is constant responsibility here. This institution has a history that demands doing things right all the time. That pressure is what has led to so much success.”

Before managing his final game against Real Sociedad, the most decorated coach in the club’s history shared his feelings about his next challenge: leading the Brazil national team. “It’s not betrayal to leave for the national team with the most history in football. I'm excited to prepare for a World Cup with a five-time champion. It’s a unique challenge,” he confessed.

On Sunday, Ancelotti will fly to South America to officially take charge of his new role, leaving behind a golden era at Real Madrid and paving the way for a new chapter under Xabi Alonso.