Ancelotti gets handshake, no public support from Real Madrid chief

Spanish side Real Madrid's president Florentino Perez has refused to give his public backing to under-pressure coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Ancelotti is under pressure following his failure to lead Real Madrid to any top tier trophies this season, reports Xinhua.

Although many, including the players, want him to carry on for a third season, nobody from the club has backed the coach, fuelling rumours that Real Madrid are speaking to candidates such as famed coaches Rafael Benitez, Jurgen Klopp or Joaquin Low with a view to them replacing the Italian next season.

Perez had the chance to show his support during the launch of the "Real Madrid App" on Tuesday, but although he shook the coach's hand during the event, he made no mention of whether or not he would remain at the club next season.

"Real Madrid never gives in and neither do Real Madrid fans. All of the team is going to try again to win the 11th Champions League. We will continue to try and construct the best Real Madrid in the future," Perez said.

The future of long-serving goalkeeper Iker Casillas is also uncertain, after the veteran, who has spent his entire career with the club has spent the year enduring criticism for his performance from the fans.

The possible arrival of fellow Spanish custodian David de Gea from English side Manchester United has also complicated the future of the 34-year-old.

Saturday's La Liga home game against Getafe could be his last appearance for the club, although at the same event, he denied he could be leaving: "How am I going to say goodbye to the Bernabeu," replied Casillas when asked about his future.