Make no mistake, Carlo Ancelotti isn't interested in speaking about his job security.
"Next season I see myself here along with Iker Casillas and all the players who are doing well at Real Madrid," he told reporters (via Fox Sports). "Right now, this question is not so important. We are all focused on the run in to the end of the season, which is so important."
With end of the season now here—Real Madrid were eliminated from the Champions League semifinals on Wednesday—speculation runs rampant.
Reports in Italy (via Manchester Evening News) claim Ancelotti signed a pre-contract agreement to succeed Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City. City sources, however, insist there was nothing to the latest stories.
There is no desire to sack Pellegrini, only the desire to finish second in the Premier League.
"For our team always the most important thing is to win titles, but if you cannot win the title it doesn't mean it doesn't matter if you win or lose games," Pellegrini said. "I think it is important to try and finish second and as near as top of the table as you can."
But should the rumors be true, Real Madrid have already lined up a list of potential candidates. According to Mundo Deportivo (via Goal Transfer Talk), Zinedine Zidane, Jurgen Klopp, Rafa Benitez, Roberto Mancini and Andre Villas-Boas are all being considered to replace Ancelotti.
Klopp—who eliminated Los Galacticos from the 2013 Champions League semifinal—will surely lead the race, but still shouldn't be considered for the position.
The fact remains: Ancelotti delivered the illustrious 10th European title. One trophyless season doesn't warrant a pink slip.
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