Carlo Ancelotti Discusses Real Madrid’s Form and the Path Forward
Real Madrid’s coach explained that his plan for the Valencia match was to lift the team after a tough outing against Villarreal. He emphasized that the defense needed to be more solid and the team agreed to tighten up at the back to restore balance and confidence.
The Italian manager sees the upcoming Super Cup as a chance to restore self-belief and momentum. He noted that titles carry enormous weight for the club and recalled last season’s triumph as a strong source of confidence. He expressed a clear resolve to approach the next games with renewed focus, aiming to secure another trophy and to translate better performances into results.
He also addressed the setback in the Villarreal game, saying the drop caught him by surprise given the positive signs during practice. He described the display as uncharacteristic and stressed that the team must revert to its usual defensive discipline. Although the front line has quality, he insisted it must be supported by a robust defensive mindset and organization, especially in away matches where results matter most.
Courtois spoke about the nickname the team gave to a recent issue, calling it a strange moment for the squad. The goalkeeper’s comments were part of a broader reflection on the team’s rhythm after the World Cup break and the need to respond positively in upcoming fixtures.
Following the World Cup discussion, Ancelotti did not attribute the problems to the tournament itself. He suggested a measured approach to evaluating the impact and said the team would monitor how it responds in the next games. The Super Cup presents a crucial test, he added, and he shared a childhood anecdote about keeping a protective talisman under a pillow to ease exam nerves, illustrating the simple beliefs that sometimes anchor confidence.
On defense, he reiterated that the defensive solidity has been a hallmark of Real Madrid’s success. He framed defense less as a matter of talent and more as a matter of mentality and cohesion, promising that the team would return to the standard level of compactness that fans expect.
He also commented on the absence of Spanish players in a recent squad, noting it as a coincidence rather than a trend, and highlighted the club’s global identity while acknowledging the ongoing role of local talent within a broader, universal club culture. The aim remains to contend for all major prizes, with the immediate focus on the Super Cup as a stepping stone toward broader ambitions.
In discussing the pursuit of multiple titles, Ancelotti urged a practical mindset. The goal is to contest every competition with full effort, but the priority at the moment is to win the Super Cup and build momentum for the season ahead.
The coach also touched on his relationship with former colleague Gennaro Gattuso, noting that time has changed dynamics and that they share memories of major successes. While personal circumstances have fluctuated, the professional respect remains, and he acknowledged Gattuso’s continued influence as a coach in the game today.
Referring to penalties in training, he explained that the selection process balances merit and willingness. He noted the challenge of replicating the energy and pressure of a penalty shootout, where intangible factors can sway outcomes. These moments underscore the complexity of matching the team’s mental strength to its technical ability.
Finally, Ancelotti paid tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo, calling him a major signing who left a lasting legacy and expressing best wishes for the future. He also recognized Bale’s standing among Real Madrid supporters, while acknowledging that both players are part of the club’s storied history and enduring memory.