Former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti made a surprise return to the club’s training ground at Valdebebas, where he met Jose Mourinho and the players ahead of a training session.

Why Did Ancelotti Visit?

Ancelotti (67) now head coach of the Brazil national team, reportedly visited the Real Madrid training base as part of a special assignment concerning several Brazilian internationals currently recovering from injuries.

The Italian manager was particularly interested in the progress of Endrick, Rodrygo and Éder Militão, all of whom are important members of the Brazil national team.

The trio continued their recovery away from the main group, with Ancelotti closely monitoring their progress as they work towards returning to full fitness.

The visit also provided the former Real Madrid boss with an opportunity to reconnect with the club and its players, having left the Spanish giants in 2025 to take charge of Brazil.

Ancelotti’s Trophy-Laden Real Madrid Career

Ancelotti first took charge of Real Madrid in June 2013, replacing Jose Mourinho. He enjoyed an impressive first season, guiding the club to the Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League.

His success continued the following campaign as Real Madrid won the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. However, Ancelotti departed in 2015 after being dismissed.

Following spells with Bayern Munich and Everton, the Italian returned to Madrid in 2021 and enjoyed another highly successful period.

During his second spell, Ancelotti added 11 trophies to his collection, including Champions League triumphs in the 2021/22 and 2023/24 seasons. He eventually became Real Madrid’s most successful manager, with 15 trophies in total.

Real Madrid are now preparing for their La Liga meeting with Real Betis on Friday. Los Blancos will be looking to extend their unbeaten run and potentially move to the top of the table with victory at the Estadio Benito Villamarín.