Real Madrid

Los Blancos face the prospect of missing out on their two priority targets for 2024-25, elimination from the Champions League already being suffered at the hands of Arsenal at the quarter-final stage.

A last-gap win was recorded over Athletic Bilbao at the weekend to remain within four points of leaders Barcelona in the La Liga table, yet speculation persists regarding the Italian's future.

Last week, in the aftermath of the Arsenal defeat, it was claimed that Ancelotti would exit the club after the Copa del Rey final with Barcelona this weekend.

With Real still in contention for the La Liga title and with Barcelona still to play, such reports appear unrealistic at this stage, but it has led to constant talk regarding the situation.

Ancelotti speaks on future

Prior to Wednesday's La Liga encounter against Getafe, Ancelotti was quick to state that he is eager to continue his current role.

At a press conference, the 65-year-old said: "I love being here [at Madrid] and I hope this will last as long as possible.

"The honeymoon continues. I'm very happy, contented. There is a lot of pressure, true, but that is always the case at this point of the season.

"I'm happy with the club, they know this has been a tough season. Stress is fuel - it doesn't bother me, it gives me more energy."

There has bene frequent speculation regarding an exit to become the next coach of Brazil, who sacked Dorival Junior last month.

Should supporters expect more development?

In the short term, all focus will be on gaining a necessary win at Getafe before trying to guarantee that Real end the season with at least one trophy.

Saturday's Copa del Rey final has become a showpiece occasion given Real's Champions League failure and status as underdogs in the title race.

Although Ancelotti holds a contract until the end of next season, failure to lift any silverware - aside from the UEFA Super Cup - would put him in a position where his stock at the club would have weakened considerably.

That said, Real also have a Club World Cup campaign from June onwards, and decisions will need to be made prior to that tournament.

Written by

Darren Plant