Carlo Ancelotti’s time at Real Madrid could be approaching an abrupt end, with reports from Spain suggesting that he may be dismissed if Madrid loses to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final — even though there would still be five LaLiga matches left to play. Such an exit would be particularly harsh for the Italian coach, who recently celebrated his fifth Champions League title before being eliminated this season by Arsenal.
If Real Madrid does decide to sack Ancelotti, it wouldn’t be the first time he faces a painful departure. Early in his managerial career, he experienced a similarly harsh exit at Juventus. Despite being in contention for the Serie A title on the final day, Ancelotti was dismissed during halftime, as Roma, his former club, secured the championship. His ties to Roma, along with his past at Parma and Milan, meant he never fully gained the affection of Juventus fans, who viewed him as an outsider.
The split had been brewing for some time. Juventus executives had already leaked news of Ancelotti’s departure to the press before informing him, even though he had recently agreed to extend his contract. Reflecting on his tenure, Ancelotti would later describe his time at Juventus as “a love story that never began,” feeling like a simple man from Reggiolo who struggled to fit into a club dominated by sharp-suited businessmen.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti quickly rebuilt his reputation. He guided AC Milan to European success, famously defeating Juventus in the 2003 Champions League final, and later collected three more Champions League trophies with Real Madrid, securing his place among the all-time greats.
Whatever the outcome of the current situation at Madrid, it is unlikely to match the sting of that early heartbreak he endured at Juventus.
