Iker Casillas (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
After Real Madrid’s elimination by Arsenal, Iker Casillas surprised fans by backing Carlo Ancelotti, insisting the season isn’t over and warning against premature judgment.
Iker Casillas has stunned Real Madrid fans by offering a rare show of support for Carlo Ancelotti after the club’s dramatic exit from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal.
Madrid’s 3-2 aggregate defeat in the quarter-finals sent shockwaves through Spain. For many, it was a turning point that signaled the end of Ancelotti’s era—and possibly Real Madrid’s trophy hopes for the season.
Speculation over the Italian’s future intensified immediately, with widespread reports suggesting that club president Florentino Pérez is preparing to bring in Xabi Alonso from Bayer Leverkusen.
But just as the storm of criticism reached its peak, Casillas delivered a surprising message.
“I know that after such an elimination, Real Madrid fans are upset. However, three titles can still be won. In football, there are fewer memories and more 'professors'. The final grades are only given in June. We also have the World Cup in July! Ancelotti is always at his best,” the club legend said on social media.
His words instantly stood out, not only for their optimism but for going against the narrative of growing unrest. For many supporters, Ancelotti has become the symbol of stagnation. But for Casillas, he remains a steady hand in turbulent times.
Ancelotti’s future is now hanging by a thread. He has not hidden from the rumors but neither has he offered clarity. When asked directly whether he would lead Real Madrid at the Club World Cup this summer, he replied: “I can't talk to you about it now.”
That ambiguity has only fueled more talk of his departure—some believe it could even happen before the season ends. Yet Casillas’ support sends a different signal: that not everyone inside Madrid’s elite football circle is ready to give up on the veteran coach.
Casillas, who won multiple titles under Ancelotti, seems determined to remind fans of the bigger picture. With La Liga and the Copa del Rey still technically within reach, the club’s fate might not be sealed just yet.
Still, the atmosphere in Madrid is tense. And as Real Madrid prepare for the next few matches, one question looms large: will they move forward with Ancelotti—or begin a new chapter without him?