Carlo Ancelotti, speaking post-match after a bruising 3-1 Champions League loss to AC Milan, didn’t mince words. He acknowledged that his team is in a rough patch, one that’s proving hard to fix as his side grapples with defensive lapses, mounting pressure, and a loss of their usual resilience. The defeat marks a significant setback for Madrid, with Ancelotti vowing to identify solutions and stressing the collective responsibility needed to regain control on the pitch.
Struggling to Find Balance: Ancelotti’s Take on Defensive Woes
Real Madrid’s defense, typically the foundation of their success, has become their Achilles’ heel. Conceding nine goals over their last three games, Madrid is losing the solidity that Ancelotti considers fundamental to their identity. “The team is not able to reach a good version, especially in the last two games,” Ancelotti admitted, pointing to the gaps that opponents have exploited with ease. He stressed the importance of re-establishing the team’s structure and cohesion to prevent further leaks in their defense.
Madrid fans, already expressing frustration, are seeing their concerns echoed by the manager himself. Ancelotti’s worry is clear: if Madrid cannot stabilize their defensive game, advancing in the Champions League or maintaining their stature in La Liga will be a difficult ask.
Responsibility and Resilience: Ancelotti on Facing Criticism Head-On
In response to questions about criticism or doubts surrounding his leadership, Ancelotti was refreshingly open. He dismissed the notion that scrutiny was unfair, stating that it was natural given the team’s recent dip in performance. “The team is not playing its best, and we are all to blame,” he remarked, emphasizing the shared accountability within the squad.
The Italian manager, however, was quick to remind the media that these challenges, while difficult, aren’t unprecedented. Ancelotti is a veteran in navigating challenging seasons and believes that the team’s strength lies in its ability to weather tough moments. This confidence in the group’s resilience provides some optimism, as he believes Madrid can bounce back and reclaim the form that made them European champions last season.
Attack Issues or Defensive Collapse? Ancelotti on Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.
Another point of concern for Madrid has been the chemistry between Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr., two of their biggest stars. While both players showed flashes of their attacking prowess, Ancelotti noted that accuracy was lacking, particularly in the Milan match. “We had many opportunities in attack, but we lacked accuracy,” he said, downplaying any significant friction between the players.
However, Ancelotti reiterated that offensive misfires weren’t the core issue. Instead, he pointed to how easily Milan breached their defense, signaling a collective issue rather than individual performance flaws. His comments highlight that while Madrid’s stars may shine in attack, their success depends on the entire squad playing a more unified and defensively sound game.
Criticism on Running Less: Ancelotti Defends His Tactics
Ancelotti pushed back against critics who claim Madrid isn’t physically keeping up with opponents. When questioned about Madrid’s supposed lack of intensity compared to other teams, he reminded everyone that last season’s Champions League-winning side wasn’t the fastest team either. “That is not a characteristic of ours. Last year, we were not the team that ran the most, and we won the Champions League,” he pointed out.
To Ancelotti, the problem lies in defensive organization and not in physicality or effort levels. Madrid’s defensive disarray, not a lack of fitness, is allowing opponents to find and exploit spaces easily. Ancelotti’s stance suggests that solving the defensive puzzle will be his main priority moving forward.
Social Media Buzz: Ancelotti on Valverde’s Wife’s Comments
The ever-intrusive world of social media made its way into the press conference, with questions arising around comments from Fede Valverde’s wife, who had voiced frustration about Valverde’s recent struggles. Ancelotti handled the issue diplomatically, explaining that Valverde had been dealing with back problems, which limited his effectiveness. While acknowledging social media’s influence, he was clear that player health and readiness remain his top priorities.
The manager’s response reflects his approach to shielding his players from external criticism, particularly from the media and fans. With social media amplifying every reaction, Ancelotti’s ability to handle off-field distractions will be crucial as Madrid navigates this difficult stretch.
A United Dressing Room Amid Criticism and Self-Reflection
Ancelotti also addressed the state of the locker room. Despite the team’s recent setbacks, he described the dressing room as “healthy.” He acknowledged that the players expect and accept criticism but emphasized that maintaining unity is essential. “We have to accept that we are not doing well now and do better,” he said. His comments aimed to dispel any notions of discord among the players, instead highlighting their collective determination to bounce back.
Madrid’s struggle is compounded by internal and external pressures, but Ancelotti remains optimistic about the team’s capacity for introspection and growth. His reassurances are aimed at fans and critics alike, calling for patience while the team regroups and resets their focus.
Defensive Concerns: Ancelotti Calls for Compactness and Organization
Ancelotti’s primary tactical concern remains Madrid’s lack of compactness. After conceding nine goals in their last three outings, the manager’s frustration is evident. “We have to be more compact, more organized,” he urged. This repeated emphasis on defensive integrity underlines his tactical philosophy: without a solid backline, Madrid’s offensive firepower is rendered ineffective.
Ancelotti’s response hints at possible changes in training or lineup adjustments to restore Madrid’s defensive solidity. Whether that involves tactical shifts or personnel changes remains to be seen, but it’s clear that defensive discipline will be the bedrock of any improvement.
Team Morale and Moving Forward
Ancelotti rounded off his media session by stressing that the issues Madrid faces are collective, not individual. He dismissed concerns that fan discontent could harm players like Aurélien Tchouaméni, asserting that the squad is united in finding solutions. “Now it’s time to get up, fight, and win the next match,” he concluded.
As Madrid prepares for their upcoming games, the stakes are high. The team’s ability to adapt and respond to recent setbacks could determine their Champions League fate and shape the rest of their season. With Ancelotti at the helm, Madrid’s journey will be closely watched, both by hopeful supporters and critical analysts waiting to see if this slump is just a minor bump in the road or the beginning of a larger struggle.
