Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti reportedly plans to leave his role at the end of the season.
The Italian has been in his second stint at the Santiago Bernabeu since 2021 when he accepted the opportunity to manage Los Blancos for a second time when in charge of Everton.
Ancelotti has since enjoyed a hugely-successful period with the Spanish giants, adding two La Liga trophies and two Champions League crowns to his array of silverware.
However, despite extending his contract until 2026, there has been ongoing speculation as to whether the 65-year-old would see out his new deal.
According to Onda Cero, that will not be the case with Ancelotti said to have already held discussions with club officials.
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Strange time to make a decision?
Real only returned to the top of the La Liga table on Sunday as they came from behind to earn a 4-1 victory against Las Palmas.
A Champions League date with Red Bull Salzburg is next on the agenda with Ancelotti's side down in 20th in the standings and facing an uphill task to secure automatic qualification for the last 16.
Nevertheless, Ancelotti is said to be of the opinion that he wishes to take on a new challenge in a different country from the summer onwards.
Ancelotti has managed 11 teams across five different nations - Italy, England, France, Spain and Germany - during his illustrious career.
With Claudio Ranieri leaving his role at Roma at the end of the season, there will be an opportunity at Stadio Olimpico, a stadium where Ancelotti spent eight years of his playing days.
Although Ancelotti has previously played down such speculation, a return to Roma and his first role in Italy since 2019 will be viewed as a realistic option.
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Who is the favourite to replace Ancelotti?
Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso seemingly remains the most likely candidate to be the next incumbent in the Real dugout.
The report adds that the former Real Madrid midfielder is the favourite to succeed Ancelotti on the back of his history-making campaign in Germany during 2023-24.
Alonso led Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga-title-winning campaign, as well as the Europa League final, and an incredible 80 wins have been posted from 118 matches in all competitions.
Leverkusen currently sit in second place in this season's Bundesliga table having lost just one of their opening 18 top-flight encounters.
Darren Plant
