Ancelotti proud of unforgettable years at Real Madrid

MADRID : Carlo Ancelotti said on Tuesday he was proud of the legacy he had built in four mostly successful years in his second tenure at Real Madrid and will only have good memories as he heads to Brazil to take over the five-times world champions.

Wednesday's LaLiga match at home to Mallorca was on the back burner during the pre-match press conference one day after the Brazilian FA (CBF) announced that the Italian would become Brazil coach after leaving Real at the end of the season.

All but the opening question from Real's in-house TV channel were related to Ancelotti's imminent move, but he said his focus will be in Spain until he travels to Brazil on May 25.

"There have been some unforgettable years that I'll carry dearly close to my heart," Ancelotti told reporters.

"Football, like life itself, is full of adventures that begin but eventually have to end. I always knew that one day it would come to an end my time here at Real.

"It has been a wonderful period which is coming to an end. A great time. But if even life comes to an end, imagine what it's like when a period with a football team comes to an end.

"I've enjoyed it, and I want to finish it well. And then, on the 26th, I'll talk about another challenge."

The fact Real have yet to officially announce Ancelotti's departure was raised by reporters but he played it down and said everything was done in accordance with all the parts involved.

"Real will issue a statement when they think adequate, but there is no problem or issue between all parts whatsoever," Ancelotti said.

"I never had problems with Real and never will have problems with Real. It's a club that lives dearly in my heart, but everything in life has a date to end."

BARREN SEASON

The 65-year-old Ancelotti, one