The Miraculous Journey of Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti exuded his trademark calmness and confidence as he addressed the media ahead of the La Liga clash against Deportivo Alaves this week. Reflecting on his milestone of coaching 300 games at the prestigious club, Ancelotti remarked, “To be on this bench 300 times, I’m not saying it’s a miracle, but almost.”
Ancelotti’s tenure at Real Madrid, marked by two separate spells, has seen him achieve remarkable success, including three Champions League titles. However, his journey at the club has not been without its challenges, as he navigated the demanding environment under president Florentino Perez’s watchful eye.
What sets Ancelotti apart is his ability to manage up, as detailed in his book “Quiet Leadership: winning hearts, minds, and matches.” Throughout his illustrious coaching career, he has worked under influential figures like Silvio Berlusconi at AC Milan, Roman Abramovich at Chelsea, and Nasser Al Khelaifi at Paris Saint-Germain.
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His strategic approach and adept handling of player relationships have been key to his success, as evidenced by his impact on star players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale at Real Madrid. Ancelotti’s capacity to adapt his tactics to suit the team’s strengths has been instrumental in delivering major trophies at crucial junctures.
Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid in 2021 saw further challenges, including navigating the transfer market and reshaping the squad post-departures of key players. Despite facing scrutiny and criticism, Ancelotti’s response has always been measured and composed, reflecting his seasoned approach to handling pressure.
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As Ancelotti continues to steer Real Madrid through its ups and downs, his unwavering leadership and tactical acumen remain a guiding force for the team’s success. His journey at the helm of the iconic club serves as a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and enduring legacy in the realm of football coaching.
(Top photo: Angel Martinez – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
