Former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that the club's Champions League quarter-final defeat to Arsenal was the catalyst for his departure from the Spanish giants.

In an interview with MARCA, Ancelotti disclosed that he had a serious discussion with the club's top management following the Champions League exit, which ultimately sealed his fate at Santiago Bernabéu.

"Results were not what we expected, and the team's play wasn't great either. It was time to do something," Ancelotti explained. "After the tie against Arsenal, we talked about it and decided. It was something we could see coming."

The Italian tactician added: "The team wasn't in good shape and we realised it was best for Real Madrid to look for change and for me to look at Brazil."

Ancelotti announced his departure from Real Madrid at the end of what proved to be a disappointing season for the club. Los Blancos failed to secure any major silverware, losing out in the Champions League, La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España.

Particularly painful for the Madrid faithful was the team's four defeats at the hands of arch-rivals Barcelona – twice in the league and twice in cup finals.

Despite the disappointing end to his tenure, Ancelotti leaves behind a remarkable legacy at Real Madrid. The 65-year-old holds the record as the club's most successful manager, having won 15 titles across his two stints with the Spanish giants.

Following his departure, Ancelotti has taken up the role of national team coach for Brazil, while Real Madrid have appointed former midfielder Xabi Alonso as their new manager.