Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has expressed profound sadness regarding manager Carlo Ancelotti's imminent departure from the Spanish giants.
Ancelotti is set to leave Real Madrid at the end of the current season to take over as head coach of the Brazil national team. The Italian tactician will oversee his final match as Real Madrid manager when they face Real Sociedad on Saturday.
Speaking about Ancelotti's departure, Carvajal revealed his deep personal connection with the manager, describing him as a father figure in his football career.
"I am very sad about Carlo Ancelotti's departure. He is almost like a Sports Father to me," Carvajal was quoted by Madrid Zone as saying.
The Spanish defender also expressed his hope that Ancelotti receives a fitting farewell in his final match at the Santiago Bernabeu. "I hope he gets the send-off he deserves on Saturday," Carvajal added.
Ancelotti's tenure at Real Madrid has been marked by significant success. During his two spells with the club, the 65-year-old Italian has secured multiple trophies, including Champions League titles and domestic honors, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful managers in the club's illustrious history.
His departure marks the end of an era for Real Madrid, with the club now facing the challenge of appointing a successor capable of maintaining their competitive edge in both Spanish and European football.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti's move to Brazil represents a new chapter in his distinguished coaching career, as he takes on the challenge of managing a national team for the first time after decades of success at club level.