'Thank you for everything' - Jude Bellingham sends heartfelt goodbye to outgoing Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as legendary Italian prepares to take Brazil job

The English midfielder was signed by Ancelotti in 2023 and, under the tutelage of the Italian, shot to stardom from a more advanced position. Los Blancos won both La Liga and the Champions League as Bellingham established himself as one of Madrid's most important, and the world's best, players. The 21-year-old played in both in midfield and as the Madrid number nine under Ancelotti and his growth in the Spanish capital was epitomised when he provided the winning assist for Vinicius Junior at Wembley to clinch the European crown.

In a post dedicated to Ancelotti, Bellingham said: "Mister, thank you for everything. It was a pleasure and great experience to learn from the most successful manager of our club and one of the greatest of all time. What you have taught me about life and football will stick with me always and I will be forever grateful. Good luck on your next journey, I wish you, your staff and your family nothing but happiness!"

Ancelotti has agreed to become the boss of Brazil as he suggests his time in domestic football may have come to an end. The Italian explained: "I don't feel like coaching another club, or I didn't, after Madrid. That's what I've said and I maintain. In the future... I don't know. But the most immediate thing is to do well with Brazil."

Xabi Alonso has agreed to take over from the Italian at Real Madrid. The Bayer Leverkusen boss will come in immediately and be in charge of the squad ahead of the Club World Cup.

Bellingham will play his final game under Ancelotti on Saturday against Real Sociedad before the Italian departs. The Englishman will feature at this summer's Club World Cup before potentially facing Ancelotti again next year at the World Cup.