Real Madrid Players’ Honest Opinions on Carlo Ancelotti Surface Following Arsenal Defeat.
Real Madrid players’ true feelings about Carlo Ancelotti have reportedly surfaced following their Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal on Wednesday night.
After suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat in the first leg, the 15-time European champions faced an uphill battle — a comeback that only four teams in Champions League history have ever achieved. But hopes of a historic turnaround were dashed as goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli sealed a 2-0 win for Arsenal, eliminating the holders and silencing the Santiago Bernabéu.
In the aftermath, Ancelotti admitted uncertainty over his future at the club, amid growing speculation that his tenure could be coming to an end. According to a report from Relevo, the atmosphere within the Madrid dressing room suggests that faith in the Italian manager is starting to wane.
Players are said to be losing confidence in Ancelotti’s tactical approach, particularly his lack of clear strategy ahead of the second leg against Mikel Arteta’s side. Midfielder Jude Bellingham revealed that the team repeatedly echoed the phrase “la remontada”—Spanish for “the comeback”—in the build-up to the game, trying to fuel belief. However, the report claims Ancelotti’s team talks largely centered around emotional motivation—urging passion, intensity, and commitment—without offering a detailed game plan to overcome the Gunners.
This perceived lack of tactical clarity has reportedly caused a growing disconnect between Ancelotti and his players. Relevo further reports that club president Florentino Pérez is fully aware of the discontent and has spoken with several players about the situation, acknowledging the concerns in the locker room.
Though Ancelotti remains a respected figure within the club, it’s believed that his time at the helm is nearing its conclusion. Speculation over his replacement is already underway, with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso emerging as the frontrunner. Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola and Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi are also being considered as potential successors.
