Latest Carlo Ancelotti move increases chances of exit for Real Madrid fan favourite

Real Madrid veteran Nacho Fernandez has been reportedly closing in on an exit this summer, and the direction of things makes a U-turn unlikely. Los Blancos are willing to offer the 34-year-old another one-year extension, but after coming close to leaving last season appears increasingly sure of his decision this time.

While Real Madrid won the Copa del Rey last season, a league title and possible Champions League would allow him to go out on a high as captain, lifting trophies. In recent months it has been reported that Nacho’s relationship with Ancelotti is less than optimal, with the former feeling he has not been treated fairly by the Italian in terms of selection.

The decision is not strictly down to his situation on the pitch, as Nacho was conidering a change of scenery anyway, but Ancelotti’s decision to withdraw him against Bayern Munich on Tuesday has drawn him closer to the exit door again. Relevo say that Nacho was not amused by Ancelotti’s call to move Aurelien Tchouameni back into defence and bring Eduardo Camavinga into midfield.

Nacho Fernandez was less than amused by Carlo Ancelotti's decision to substitute him on Tuesday. (Relevo) #RealMadrid pic.twitter.com/rrTJDZLpdY

— Football España (@footballespana_) May 2, 2024

This follows a series of games in the second half of the season, beginning at Mestalla in Valencia, and continuing against Osasuna and Manchester City, of using Tchouameni ahead of him in central defence. His performance against City in the second leg was a response, but the veteran defender considers the change emblematic of his standing in the squad, and the fact that Ancelotti does not trust him entirely at the back.

Ultimately, Nacho is likely to be the last-choice central defender next season,