Real Madrid not ruling out sacking Ancelotti if team loses to Athletic Club – report | OneFootball

Just days after suffering a crushing 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, Real Madrid now face a must-win LaLiga clash against Athletic Club today at Santiago Bernabeu.

The timing of the match couldn’t be more delicate, with confidence shaken, pressure building, and the future of Carlo Ancelotti under serious scrutiny.

While many reports suggest Real Madrid are preparing a legends’ exit for Ancelotti, who has a good relationship with the board, the club are not ruling out the Italian’s sudden departure either.

Ancelotti could face the ace vs Athletic Club

According to journalist June Lavin, Real Madrid are not ruling out drastic decisions if the team fails to respond against Athletic Club today.

A poor result could force Madrid’s top brass to consider relieving Ancelotti of his duties, despite just weeks remaining in the season.

Can Real Madrid return to winning ways vs Athletic Club? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Ancelotti, who has already faced questions over his long-term future, was heavily criticised for Madrid’s lacklustre performance over both legs against Arsenal.

More than the team’s performances on the pitch, it appears the Italian has simply lost the dressing room and that winning spirit is missing.

Although Real Madrid are out of the Champions League this season, the club still have a considerable chance of winning both La Liga and Copa Del Rey.

But if Real Madrid continue to remain devoid of leadership, the club may easily falter against Barcelona in the race to win the league title.

Therefore, Real Madrid are ready to take harsh actions if necessary. And to that end, the upcoming match against Athletic Club could be an acid test of sorts for the Italian coach.