Ancelotti to discuss future at the end of the season

Carlo Ancelotti has dismissed rumours that his future is in absolute doubt and says that his focus is on finishing the season strong, with two potential trophies still to play for.

After the record 15-time winners lost to Arsenal on Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League, speculation grew that Madrid would dismiss the Italian coach in the coming weeks.

Ancelotti, though, says that he is not prepared for such a scenario with less than eight weeks remaining this season.

"At the end of the season, we will speak (about my future) with the club," Ancelotti told a news conference, batting away various questions on a similar theme.

The Italian's current contract is due to end in 2026.

"I have spoken with the players and the club, we all agree, we have to fight for the titles that are on the line," continued the 65-year-old, ahead of Sunday's clash with Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga.

Spanish champions Madrid trail leaders Barcelona by four points and will also face the Catalans in the Copa del Rey final on April 26.

"Obviously, we are all hurt, and the fans, after going out of maybe the most important competition, or at least the one Madrid has had the most success in, in recent years," said Ancelotti.

"We are all in the same boat, in the good and the bad times. The president has always shown me the most affection in these moments than in the moments when we have won."

Speculations have linked Ancelloti to the Brazil national football side as coach, after Dorival Junior was sacked following a heavy hammering by long-time rivals Argentina.

He, however, has no intention of speaking about it at the moment.

"No. We decide at the end of the season," Ancelloti said tersely.

After the UEFA Champions League heartbreak, Los Blancos host Athletic Bilbao in the La Liga on Sunday.