Ancelotti Dismisses Transfer Speculation Amid Saudi Arabia Interest

Madrid, Spain – Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti addressed the media on Friday, dismissing rampant speculation surrounding star player Vinícius Júnior‘s potential move to the Saudi Pro League this summer. Following reports indicating that Saudi Arabia is keen to make the Brazilian footballer the highest-paid player in the world, Ancelotti mentioned his focus remains on Vinícius’s performance and happiness at the club.

“Yes, I’m tired of this topic but I’m not worried,” Ancelotti stated. “I see him happy and we are happy with him. There’s nothing more to add with respect to what I said a week ago. It’s not a topic that we discuss here, he [Vinícius] doesn’t discuss it.” Vinícius, 24, is currently enjoying his seventh season with Madrid and recently expressed a desire to extend his contract, which runs until 2027, during an interview after their 3-2 victory over Manchester City on Tuesday.

“All I can tell you is what I see here, he is happy, eager to do things well, and make history with the club,” Ancelotti added. Reports indicate that Vinícius’s agents have communicated financial demands to Real Madrid, suggesting he wants a salary higher than current club top earner.”

The Brazilian forward, who has contributed significantly to Madrid’s success with two Champions League titles and three league crowns, was a standout performer in the recent match against Manchester City, earning Player of the Match honors without scoring. He recorded two assists and five key passes, showcasing his pivotal role on the pitch. Ancelotti acknowledged Vinícius’s impact, stating, “He did very well in the last game. I see him very motivated especially after what he did in the game against City because he had a lot of pressure heading into that game and withstood that pressure by making a difference.”

While Ancelotti respects the Saudi league’s ambitions, he suggested it does not pose an immediate threat to European clubs. “It shouldn’t surprise us that a country wants to invest in football,” he said. “Saudi Arabia has the right to prepare for the 2034 World Cup. It’s a market that may be less competitive now than in Europe but in the future it could be as competitive as Europe.”

When asked about his future, Ancelotti did not rule out the possibility of coaching in Saudi Arabia. “Why not, if I want to continue in football. The question is whether I want to continue [coaching] after I leave Real Madrid,” he remarked. Ancelotti’s current contract with the club is set to expire in 2026.

Looking ahead, Madrid will face Osasuna on Saturday before welcoming Manchester City for the return leg of their Champions League playoff on Wednesday. Ancelotti concluded, “We want to keep our position at the top of the table. The good things we did against City we have to do them again against Osasuna. Our team understands very well when the moment is crucial and when they have to give 100%.”