The Madrid Farewell and a Rising Tide: Ancelotti Reflects as Alonso Steps Up

Ancelotti on Madrid’s Exit and the Brazil Dream

Carlo Ancelotti, one of Real Madrid’s most successful managers with 15 trophies including three Champions Leagues, said his summer departure to the Brazil national team was a well‑thought‑out decision that left a lasting impression, despite the ache of leaving the club. He told AS that he anticipated the day would come, weighed the options, and felt the farewell with Madrid fans was as meaningful as it gets. Coaching Brazil is a formidable challenge and a beautiful dream, and he is content with where he is now, convinced he made the right call.

He recalled that moment of parting with the Madrid faithful as the best possible send‑off for him, a day that underscored the emotional depth of his decision to switch national teams. The Brazil role, he added, is a bold step that suits his ambitions and love for the game.

Madrid’s Past Glory, The Present, and Alonso’s Ascendancy

The Italian coach, who left behind a lasting Madrid legacy—legendary nights and trophy‑laden campaigns—also revisited the team’s most memorable moments. He highlighted dramatic Champions League comebacks against Paris Saint‑Germain, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, insisting that Real Madrid is a club beyond ordinary explanation. He noted that what happens on the pitch is a reflection of a club’s character, where history and pressure fuse to create something unique.

Ancelotti pushed back against those who label him merely a “dressing‑room manager,” arguing that his primary work was tactical and that he prioritized integrating young talents like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Fede Valverde, and Jude Bellingham into a cohesive unit. He pointed to the constant quest for balance, noting how the squad’s midfield and defense require careful orchestration to keep the team competitive at the highest level.

Addressing last season’s shortcomings, he attributed them largely to defensive injuries—carvajal, Militao, and Rudiger among those affected—and the necessity of shifting players into unfamiliar positions, which disrupted the team’s balance. He stressed that the challenge wasn’t merely about replacing Kroos or Modrić, but about preserving the equilibrium that underpins the club’s success.

On Alonso, he expressed unwavering faith: “I’m sure he’ll succeed; he doesn’t need my advice. I watch all Madrid matches to monitor the Brazilian players, and I see him leading the team brilliantly. But in Madrid, even a draw can become a crisis.” He finished with optimism about the future under Alonso’s stewardship, highlighting a defense that is solid and an attack that remains dangerous, with Mbappe in prime form and Bellingham returning strong.

A Legendary Career, A Modern Approach

Carlo Ancelotti’s career is a blend of legendary longevity and modern tactical wit. Born on June 10, 1959, in Reggio Emilia, he started as a smart midfielder before moving into management with Genoa and then rising through Italian clubs such as Parma, Fiorentina, and Juventus. His peak European exploits came with Milan, including European titles in 2003 and 2007. He later uplifted Chelsea, PSG, and Real Madrid, becoming the most decorated Real Madrid coach with 15 official trophies across two stints. His blend of tactical flexibility and people management has made him a model for coaches who must harmonize star power with collective achievement. His philosophy emphasizes adaptable systems, timely in‑match adjustments, and nurturing young talent to sustain long‑term success.

In the end, Ancelotti’s story is one of balance: an insistence on style without sacrificing structure, a knowledge of when to press and when to hold, and a knack for turning potential into trophies. And if you think that’s a lot to juggle, remember: he’s done it while maintaining a calm on the touchline that makes even referees consider taking a seat. Punchline time: If football were a sniper rifle, Ancelotti’s shots would be right on target—sound, precise, and somehow still making the headlines. And if Alonso ever needs a tip, just ask the bench; it’s probably got more cushions than a boardroom and twice the strategic depth.