Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, spoke with measured restraint about Lionel Messi and the ongoing debate over who stands as the greatest player in football history. He noted that Messi is undoubtedly among the sport’s all-time greats, but he avoided labeling any single era as the definitive golden age. Every generation brings its own standout players, and the Italian manager stressed that history cannot be captured by a single verdict or a headline at a press conference.
“Messi has done extraordinary things. He is a superb footballer, well known for his achievements. Is he the best ever? I don’t know. Each era has produced superb players who made their mark, and I won’t declare someone the greatest in history in a press conference,” Ancelotti commented. He additionally reflected on his own memories of great talents, mentioning players he has observed at the pinnacle of the sport, from Maradona to Cruyff, and acknowledging the Ballon d’Or as a reminder of the level of excellence seen across decades.
In addressing tactical trends, Ancelotti dismissed the notion that tiki-taka or any single playing style holds the exclusive place in modern football. He emphasized that football is a dynamic game with shifting contexts and moments to read. While ball control and short passing remain valuable, the ability to interpret a game state, adjust to evolving situations, and make the right decisions matters just as much. He stated that touch-based football will continue to be a meaningful component of the sport, but there is no single formula that fits every match or era.
The coach also commented on the frequent stoppages and time-wasting criticisms that were discussed during the Qatar 2022 World Cup. He admitted that the schedule included many extra minutes and expressed a preference for a more straightforward approach to time management in the sport. His stance is clear: the goal is effective play. Matches should flow in a way that rewards action and efficiency, and decisions on timekeeping should reflect that objective rather than becoming a preoccupation with adding or subtracting minutes for their own sake.
Ahead of the upcoming clash against Valladolid, scheduled for a late Friday kickoff, Ancelotti reaffirmed Real Madrid’s current squad strength. He asserted that the team is performing well and does not require new players at this moment. He noted that there could be departures, but only if players seeking more minutes find opportunities elsewhere. The emphasis remained on maintaining a cohesive roster and exploiting the depth of available talent within the group.
Regarding contract situations, Ancelotti addressed the futures of Dani Ceballos and Marco Asensio, who are nearing contract expiry on 30 June. He did not hide the importance of commitment within the squad, noting that every player has shown strong dedication. Real Madrid has begun a careful review of each case, with an open mind about renewals. The manager made clear that happiness would come from players choosing what they believe best serves their careers, whether that means staying with Real Madrid or exploring new paths elsewhere.
Reflecting on the team’s trajectory, Ancelotti compared the current season to the previous one. He observed that the first half of the current campaign has shown improvement relative to the same period the year before. He spoke with a sense of cautious optimism, hoping the team can sustain or even improve its level in the second half of the season, much like hoping for a strong finish that might surpass the prior year. The coach’s emphasis remained on collective effort, tactical awareness, and continuous development, underlining that progress is earned through consistent performance and strategic planning rather than a single standout result.
In summary, Ancelotti’s remarks highlighted a balanced view of football greatness, the enduring value of flexible tactics, and a commitment to efficient, purposeful play. He underscored Real Madrid’s current stability, while leaving avenues open for player decisions that reflect personal growth and professional ambition. The dialogue also treated the sport as a living, evolving topic—one where legends are measured not just by one era’s achievements, but by the ongoing impact of today’s teams and their players on the broader football landscape.