Carlo Ancelotti receives vote of confidence from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez over a coffee at club's training ground - but under-pressure boss is open to leading Brazil at 2026 World Cup

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has reassured head coach Carlo Ancelotti that his position at the club is secure. Amid ongoing speculation about Ancelotti’s future, which has once again linked him to the Brazil national team, MARCA reports that Perez met with the Italian coach over coffee at the club's Valdebebas training facilities last Friday and reaffirmed his full confidence in him.

Unless something unexpected happens between now and the end of the season, it is expected that Ancelotti will end this season with his Real Madrid job not on the line. Ancelotti signed a two-year extension back in December 2023, with the team firing on all fronts. As is usually the trend at the club, decisions regarding the coach's future at the club will be made at the end of the season in July, after the Club World Cup.

Despite a challenging season filled with difficult moments — most recently following Real Madrid’s narrow Champions League qualification after eliminating cross-city rivals Atletico Madrid in the last-16 stage — Perez’s message to Ancelotti has been one of reassurance. Real remain competitive in all competitions, and the club values both the manager's leadership and the team’s efforts, especially considering the numerous injuries the squad has faced.

Rumors surrounding Ancelotti’s potential move to the Brazil national team, and speculation about Xabi Alonso’s future as Real Madrid’s next manager continue to circulate. However, Alonso is currently under contract with Bayer Leverkusen, where he enjoys the backing of the club for at least one more season. Despite all the rumours, the former Spanish international dodged any questions surrounding his future last week and did not give a clear answer.

Although Ancelotti’s contract includes a clause that could potentially see him take on a role other than head coach, Real Madrid’s management remains convinced that he is the best option to lead the team. With his contract set to expire in 2026, it is quite possible that Los Blancos will not see a new coach at the dugout next season.