“On One Condition”: Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez Reveals the Only Circumstance That Could Stop Him from Sacking Carlo Ancelotti This Season
In the high-pressure cauldron of elite European football, where managers are often just one bad result away from the axe, Real Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez has made a surprising revelation—one that may calm nerves at the Santiago Bernabéu, at least temporarily. Speaking during an exclusive interview with Spanish outlet Marca, Pérez lifted the lid on the one condition that could ensure Carlo Ancelotti keeps his job through the end of the season, regardless of what happens on the pitch.
“I have great admiration and respect for Carlo,” Pérez said. “But Real Madrid is a club built on expectations, on success. Still, there’s one thing that could stop me from making the tough decision.”
That condition? Winning the UEFA Champions League.
It’s a staggering statement that speaks volumes about the club’s priorities and the brutal reality of managing at the most decorated football institution in the world. Despite sitting at or near the top of La Liga and maintaining a strong domestic run, Pérez made it crystal clear: Europe is everything.
“We are a club of history, of heritage, of European dominance,” the president explained. “Our identity is forged in the Champions League, and winning it again would mean everything to us this season. If Carlo delivers that, there’s no discussion—he stays.”
For Ancelotti, who has already etched his name in Madrid folklore with multiple Champions League titles, the pressure is both familiar and immense. But what makes this season’s ultimatum all the more dramatic is the backdrop. Madrid’s injury list has been long and cruel, including significant spells without key players like Thibaut Courtois and Éder Militão. Despite that, Ancelotti has managed to keep Los Blancos competitive on all fronts—blending youth with experience, particularly relying on emerging stars like Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Rodrygo.
Yet, even that tactical balancing act, combined with a deep understanding of the club’s culture, might not be enough—unless the Italian maestro brings back European glory.
Insiders close to the club suggest that Pérez has already started looking at potential successors. The names floating around include familiar faces like Xabi Alonso, currently impressing in the Bundesliga, and even a romantic return for Zinedine Zidane. But all of that is said to be on hold, pending Madrid’s fate in the Champions League knockout stages.
Interestingly, Pérez’s declaration also comes at a time when several major European clubs are in managerial turmoil. Bayern Munich are parting ways with Thomas Tuchel. Barcelona are rumored to be considering options beyond Xavi. And in England, uncertainty still lingers around several top-six managers. The managerial merry-go-round could get chaotic—and Real Madrid, as always, are right in the center of it.
But for now, the message from the top is clear: Ancelotti’s fate is not sealed by league performances or cup runs. There is one golden ticket to redemption—and it’s shaped like the big-eared trophy.
As the Champions League quarterfinals approach, all eyes will be on Madrid. Can Ancelotti guide his squad through the gauntlet of Europe’s elite once more? Or will Florentino Pérez’s patience finally run out?
One thing is certain—Carlo Ancelotti’s job rests on one condition, and one condition only.
Win the Champions League. Or pack your bags.
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