Ancelotti’s Real Madrid Champions League campaign ended in heartbreak on Wednesday night as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu, losing 5-1 on aggregate. Despite Thibaut Courtois saving a first-half penalty from Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s persistence paid off, with Saka finding the net in the 65th minute. Madrid responded swiftly as Vinícius Júnior capitalized on a William Saliba error just two minutes later.
However, Arsenal were not to be denied. In stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli sealed the Gunners’ place in the semifinals, scoring the decisive goal to cap a commanding two-legged performance. Madrid, reigning European champions, looked out of sorts across both legs, with their second-leg display offering only glimpses of the quality that had carried them to previous successes.
Ancelotti: Future at Madrid in Doubt
Speaking after the defeat, manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted uncertainty over his future with Los Blancos. “I don’t know,” Ancelotti said when asked if the quarterfinal defeat might have been his last Champions League match with Madrid. The Italian, whose current contract runs until 2026, remained philosophical, saying, “It could be that the club decides to change. It could be this year, or next year when my contract ends. There’s no problem.”
Ancelotti made it clear that he had not considered resigning, even if the season ends in disappointment. He insisted he would leave Madrid with gratitude whenever his time comes. “The day I finish here, the only thing I can do is thank this club, it could be tomorrow, in a month, or in a year,” he added, refusing to commit to a timeline but accepting the inherent uncertainty of his role.
Reflections on Defeat: Arsenal Were the Better Team
Ancelotti was candid in his assessment of the tie, admitting that Arsenal deserved to advance. He acknowledged that a controversial moment—a penalty initially awarded for a Declan Rice challenge on Kylian Mbappé but overturned by VAR—could have altered the game’s momentum. “It was important to have a moment, which might have been the penalty that they took away from us. That might have changed the dynamic of the tie,” he said.
Despite Madrid’s fighting spirit in the second leg, Ancelotti noted that the team’s collective attitude has fallen short compared to previous seasons. “In terms of attitude, the team today gave everything. But we haven’t always been able to do it,” he reflected, hinting at deeper issues that have plagued the squad beyond Wednesday’s result.
Courtois Defends Ancelotti, Calls for Greater Teamwork
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois defended Ancelotti, dismissing suggestions of discord within the squad. “There are no doubts about the boss,” Courtois told Movistar, emphasizing that the players backed their manager fully. However, he also called for greater self-criticism and teamwork, noting, “Sometimes maybe we have to play more as a team, and less as individuals.”
Courtois highlighted Madrid’s tactical shortcomings, particularly the absence of a natural center forward like Joselu, who departed last summer. “We put a lot of crosses in, but this year we don’t have a Joselu to win those duels,” he said. Courtois praised Arsenal’s defense but made it clear that Madrid must adapt their style to be more cohesive and efficient in attack.
Focus Shifts to Domestic Challenges
Despite their European exit, Real Madrid’s season is far from over. They remain in the hunt for the LaLiga title and are set to contest the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona later this month. Madrid host Athletic Club on Sunday and face Getafe midweek as they attempt to maintain momentum domestically.
Ancelotti will need to rally his players quickly to prevent the season from unraveling. With a potential league and cup double still within reach, Madrid have significant opportunities for redemption. However, their recent setbacks, particularly against Barcelona and Arsenal, have left fans and management alike questioning whether change might be necessary sooner rather than later.
