Carlo Ancelotti, five-time Champions League winner as a coach (and twice as a player), said his future at Real Madrid doesn’t exactly depend on the result against Arsenal, but he did hint that how this season ends could play a big part in whether he stays until June 2026. “I hope this isn’t my last game in such a special competition,” the Italian coach admitted.

Even though they’re heading into the second leg with a three-goal deficit, Ancelotti brushed off any pressure. “I don’t think so,” he said when asked if his job was on the line. Still, some of his later comments left the door open for change depending on how things pan out this season.

Cool head, big motivation

“I’m focused, calm, keeping a cool head. It’s not my first big game—and hopefully not my last,” he said. Rather than nerves, he spoke about the “excitement of being in charge for a game like this,” something that helps him stay sharp when it matters most.

He’s confident his squad will step it up after that first-leg loss in London and called on his players to “bring out the best in themselves.” Above all, he wants effective football, not just flair. “Real Madrid has everything it takes to turn this around: talent, commitment, experience, and the fans behind us,” he said.

Strategy and pressure are key

Ancelotti revealed he’s been working on “something special in training” to catch Arsenal off guard, pointing to the need for a clear strategy and strong individual performances. His plan? Play with intensity, press more, and control the game better than they did in the first leg.

But he also kept it real: “There’s no magic trick—but the Bernabéu does have something special. We need total connection between quality and team spirit. We can’t afford to miss on either,” he said.