Manager ofReal Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti, has reached a resolution in his contract dispute with Everton in the High Court.
The Italian coach, who had a tenure of 18 months at Goodison Park from December 2019 to June 2021, finishing 12th and 10th in the Premier League before returning to the Bernabeu, had filed a case that was described in court records as being related to “general commercial contracts and arrangements”.
While there were limited details available regarding the exact nature of the claim, it has now been successfully resolved.
“Carlo Ancelotti and Everton Football Club have reached an amicable resolution to their dispute,” said John Mehrzad KC in a statement issued on behalf of the Real Madrid boss.
“Carlo has enduring respect and a deep affection for the club’s fans and wishes them and the club the very best for the future.
Speculation surrounding Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelottihas been ongoing since late December, with Brazil’s Football Confederation expressing their strong desire for him to replace Tite as their national team coach.
Ancelotti seems likely to fulfill his contract with Real Madrid, which is set to expire in the summer of 2024. Even some of his own players have been discussing his potential move to Brazil.
Recent reports suggested that Ancelotti had reached an agreement to assume the role of Brazil’s coach in the summer of 2024. However, these reports were denied by Real Madrid.
Speaking to Marca, Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes admitted that he would be happy for Ancelotti to come with him on international breaks.
“I can’t talk much because I don’t know much either. I know he’s plan A for the national team.
“The president is counting on him and we also want him there.
“For me, for Vini, for Militao we know him and we know of his greatness.
“Having him in the national team is going to be very important, but there is still nothing confirmed.
“We hope that when his contract ends, he will come to the national team.”
Neymar confirms Ancelotti’s Brazil move
“We will have the opportunity to have a foreign coach.
Ancelotti has won everything and I’m sure he’s going to teach us a lot.”
It appears there is a groundswell of approval for Ancelotti in Brazil, with players, fans, and presidents all keen to have him join.
Sports Brief earlier reported Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has drawn up a provisional three-man shortlist to replace Ancelotti, consisting of Zinedine Zidane, Jose Mourinho, and Xabi Alonso.
Both Zidane and Mourinho have previously had stints at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium dugout and have produced remarkable results for the Spanish capital club.
Despite this, Mundo Deportivo has reported that Alonso is Perez’s preferred candidate. Coincidentally, his contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires at the end of next season – which could allow Real Madrid to poach him for nothing.
Sources have informed ESPN that the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) is contemplating the appointment of Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo Ancelotti, to a coaching position within the national team.
CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues has consistently expressed his preference for Ancelotti to take charge of the Brazilian team after the departure of Tite following the 2022 World Cup.
However, Ancelotti, who is currently the manager of Real Madrid, has stated his intention to fulfill his contract at the Bernabeu, which has one more year remaining.
Sources told ESPN Brazil the CBF are looking at how best to handle the interim period, with one option being appointing Davide Ancelotti — who is serving as his father’s assistant at Madrid — to work with Brazil interim manager Ramon Menezes in the meantime.
Sources close to Ancelotti told ESPN they would not rule out the Italian taking charge of Brazil in June 2024, when hisMadrid contract expires.
A meeting to discuss the situation is due to take place at the end of this month.
Davide Ancelotti, 33, first became his father’s assistant at Bayern Munich in 2016, and has since worked as his right-hand man at Napoli, Everton and now Madrid, where he is highly rated.
Brazil have already played friendlies with Morocco and Guinea — winning 4-1 in Barcelona on Saturday — since the World Cup and will face Senegal on Tuesday.
They are due to play six World Cup qualifying matches between September and November 2023, followed by a break until September 2024.
Plans have also been announced for a friendly with Spain in March 2024 — which RFEF president Luis Rubiales has said will take place at the Bernabeu — as part of an anti-racism campaign over the abuse faced by Brazil and Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
The Copa America is due to take place between June and July 2024, in the United States.
Carlo Ancelotti has coached clubs including Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Madrid in a 28-year managerial career — becoming the only coach to win four Champions Leagues — but has never taken charge of a national team.
Real Madrid is reportedly shifting their focus from Tottenham striker Harry Kane to Napoli forward Victor Osimhen as they seek to bolster their attacking options following Karim Benzema’s departure to Al-Ittihad.
According to Sportskeeda, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has recommended pursuing Victor Osimhen instead of Kane, considering the Nigerian striker’s impressive performances during his time at Napoli.
Osimhen, who is only 24 years old, played a pivotal role in Napoli’s triumph in Serie A last season.
He showcased his prowess as the team’s top scorer, netting 31 goals and contributing five assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.
Los Blancos will have to battle Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain who have already signified their interest in the Nigerian forward this summer.
PSG to launch Osimhen bid
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain are expected to launch a mouth-watering bid for Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen as the Nigeria international is now a top priority for the Ligue 1 champions, Complete Sport reports.
Following Lionel Messi’s departure and the uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s future, PSG are looking to strengthen their attack, and Osimhen has been identified as a key target.
Napoli currentlyvalues Osimhen at €150m, and PSG are expected to raise the sum for the Nigerian forward before the summer transfer window closes.
Osimhen ranked 4th behind Haaland
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has been ranked as the fourth-best on the list of the most valuable players in the world following his impressive performances last term for his Serie A side.
In the outgone season, the Nigerian superstar ended as the highest goalscorer with 26 goals in the Serie A and also helped his side to win the Scudetto after 33 years in what was an incredible term.
Considering his performances, Osimhen has been linked with a move to the Premier League with the likes of Chelsea, Man United, and Arsenal reported to be interested in his services.
After signing a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad, Karim Benzema has made clear his true motivations.
The current Saudi champions officially announced the signing of Benzema, who will conclude his 14-year affiliation with Real Madrid at the conclusion of the 2022–23 campaign.
Benzema has made the same decision to relocate to the Middle East as his former Real Madrid teammate and friend, Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese phenomenon joined Al-Nassr at the start of the year.
According to Sky Sports, the Frenchman’s decision to move to the Saudi Pro League, which took Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti by surprise, adds to the growing number of A-list stars to grace the oil-rich nation.
Benzema to Al Ittihad!
During his initial press conference with the club, Benzema openly acknowledged the competitiveness of the Saudi League, emphasising the abundance of talented players within its ranks.
“Al-Ittihad is a new challenge for me. It’s a good league, and there are many good players,” Benzema said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
The 35-year-old, who isReal Madrid’s second-highest goal-scorer of all-time, cited Ronaldo as one of his motivations, with his quest to win more laurels for his stacked trophy cabinet being another reason to join the Tigers.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is already here, he is a friend who shows that Saudi Arabia is starting to get ahead and I am here to win as I did in Europe.”
Benzema signs for Al-Ittihad
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or winner, Benzema will join Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia after signing a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad, the Jeddah-based club confirmed on Tuesday.
The Frenchman will join his former Real Madrid teammate in the Gulf kingdom after the five-time world player of the Year moved to Al-Nassr from Manchester United following last year’s FIFA World Cup.
The Benzema announcement comes days after Real Madrid revealed the 35-year-old was leaving the club after 14 seasons, a day afterAncelotti had insisted his future in Spain’s capital was ‘no doubt’.
In their last La Liga match of the 2022/23 season, Real Madrid concluded with a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club at home after which they bid farewell to their ‘goal king’ Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard, Marco Asensio and Mario Diaz.
The outgoing Karim Benzema, amidst significant attention, scored his final goal for the club in this match.
Regrettably, Eden Hazard’s departure from the club went relatively unnoticed amidst the focus on Benzema’s farewell.
Although Marco Asensio was substituted on and off during the game to allow the home fans an opportunity to bid farewell to the Spanish international, Hazard and Mariano Diaz remained on the bench.
Both players are joining Benzema and Asensio in leaving on free transfers, in what promises to be a summer of changes in Madrid, and Ancelotti confirmed the duo did not ask to come on.
“I can only make five changes. They did not ask to come on, but I want to say they have been serious and professional”, as per reports from Marca.
“They have behaved at the maximum level until the last day.”
Eden Hazard
Hazard’s future remains very uncertain, with Benzema tipped to make a move to Saudi Arabia in the coming days, and Asensio attracting attention from the Premier League.
Ancelotti plans for Hazard replacement
Carlo Ancelotti has outlined his plans to find replacements for outgoing forwards, Karim Benzema and Hazard.
The Spanish giants according to reports from SkySports want Tottenham star, Harry Kane, amongst other signings to replace their departing forwards at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti wants them to move for Kane while they are also eyeing a move for Chelsea striker Kai Havertz to replace Benzema.
Kane, who will turn 30 next month, has just a year left on his contract at Tottenham.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy does not want to sell and is reported will demand in excess of £100m to scare off potential interest.
Levy has been adamant that he will not sell to a Premier League rival and that looks set to thwart Manchester United’s interest this summer.
Real Madrid terminates Hazard’s contract
Earlier Sports Brief reported that Real Madrid have terminated Hazard’s contract following a nightmare spell at the club.
Hazard was rated as one of the best wingers in the world at some point and was snapped up by Real Madrid in 2019 for a then-British transfer record of £142m from Chelsea.
Despite having a five-year initial contract with Los Blancos that runs through 2024, the former Chelsea playmaker has struggled with injuries and poor form.
Ancelotti, who was unable to successfully defend his Champions League crown this year after Madrid withdrew from the tournament in the semifinals, has staked his prediction on Mourinho’s ability to inspire Roma to their second consecutive European championship.
After edging off Feyenoord to win the inaugural UEFA Conference League last season, the Eternal City team will be hoping to add the Europa League, a trophy Mourinho has won on two times, to their trophy cabinet, according to Mirror.
SEVILLE, SPAIN – MAY 05: Carlo Ancelotti, manager of Real Madrid attends the Press conference at Estadio de La Cartuja on May 05, 2023 in Seville, Spain. Real Madrid will face CA Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final on May 6, 2023. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Assessing the chances of Jose and his charges, Ancelotti highlighted the transformation Sevilla have experienced under Spanish gaffer José Luis Mendilibar.
“After a difficult start, Sevilla were able to climb out of the relegation zone. Now they’re well organized,” the 63-year-old said as quoted by Roma Press.
He continued: “Roma have the opportunity to go for the win. In addition, the Giallorossi have a very experienced coach when it comes to finals and who will play his part on the touchline. Let’s hope Roma wins.”
Mourinho eyes Europa League success
Earlier, Sports Brief reported thatRoma manager Jose Mourinho has never lost a European final, while Sevilla are six from six in Europa League finals. Something has to give in Budapest on Wednesday.
Portugal’s Mourinho has five major continental titles to his name — two Champions League wins, two Europa League trophies and last year’s triumph in the inaugural Europa Conference League with the Italian side.
Mourinho kisses trophy
The 60-year-old announced himself on the big stage in 2003 when he led Porto to the UEFA Cup, the Europa League’s precursor, and the following year he won the Champions League.
Following Real Madrid’s concession of the opening goal against Manchester City, there appeared to be a confrontation betweenCarlo Ancelotti and Vinicius Jr.
The match proved to be one to forget for Madrid, as they were thoroughly outplayed and humiliated by City in front of a lively crowd at the Etihad Stadium.
Bernardo Silva found the back of the net in the 23rd minute, and shortly after, he capitalized on a defensive miscommunication to score his second goal, compounding Madrid’s woes.
An own goal from Brazilian defender Eder Militao, and a beautiful finish from Julian Alvarez after a Phil Foden defence-splitting pass, wrapped up an embarrassing night for Madrid.
Ancelotti and Vinicius disagree
As spotted by ESPN FC, Vinicius Jr. and Ancelotti appeared to disagree after City opened the scoring through Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva.
The forward gestured with his arm and pointed to the goal scene as if he were telling his manager what went wrong in the defence.
Fans faulted Ancelotti for dropping German defender Antonio Rudiger, which may have caused the initial struggles. However, not much changed when he came on, as Madrid conceded two more goals even with him on the field.
Vinicius reveals why Madrid lost
The 22-year-old looked distraught during his post-match interview with El Chiringuito TV, via Daily Post, and revealed why his team were embarrassed.
Real Madrid players are reportedly hoping that Carlo Ancelotti will not be sacked by the club despite their humiliating elimination from the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, May 17. Following their crushing 4-0 defeat against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, there have been doubts about the future of the Italian manager.
And it’s a goal from Bernado Silva
However, Vinicius Junior has shown his support for Ancelotti, and it is believed that the players share a similar sentiment, hoping that the club will retain him despite the disappointing result.
According to Football Espana, Luka Modric also has backed Ancelotti to continue as Real Madrid’s manager, despite the club’s failure to reach a consecutive Champions League final.
“It’s football, but I think that in the Cup and in the Champions League we have done very well. For this reason, for me, there is no doubt about his continuity. He deserves it for everything he does and has done.”
Luka Modric also has backed Ancelotti to continue as Real Madrid’s manager, despite the club’s failure to reach a consecutive Champions League final.
Ancelotti’s current deal with Real Madrid runs until the summer of 2024, although the Brazil national team is said to be courting the Italian manager for their vacant managerial post.
Ancelotti admits City were better
Meanwhile,Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that his Real Madrid team deserved to lose against Manchester City, as they were second-best to the English champions, Caught Offside reports.
Carlo Ancelotti looks on during Real Madrid’s 4-0 Champions League semi-final defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. Photo by James Gill
The Italian manager said that there was no psychological decline, despite being blown away 4-0 by the Cityzens in the second leg of their semi-final clash at the Etihad Stadium.
Real Madrid have failed to defend the Champions League and La Liga titles they won last season, marking a disappointing end to their 2022/23 campaign.
Madrid’s Ancelotti hopes to stay
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti has reiterated his desire to continue as the club’s coach, despite Wednesday night’s rout at the hands of Manchester City.
The Cityzens mauled Real Madrid 4-0 to book their place in the Champions League final.
When asked about his future, Ancelotti was upbeat, and he fully anticipates being at the helm for Real Madrid in the upcoming campaign.
Manager of Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti, has reaffirmed his intention to stay on as the team’s head coach despite Wednesday night’s humiliation at the hands of Manchester City.
The Citizens destroyed Real Madrid 4-0 to secure a spot in the Champions League championship game.
According to Football Espana, Bernardo Silva scored twice to get Pep Guardiola’s team going before Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez added insurance goals to the tally.
The second leg at the Etihad Stadium was Ancelotti’s 191st as a manager in the Champions League, which takes him ahead of Sir Alex Ferguson as having the most appearances in the competition.
However, it was a night to forget for the Italian manager, who acknowledged that Man City were by far the better team on the night, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“We have lost to a team with more quality and more intensity than us. Last year we were superior, and this year they were superior. It’s a defeat that hurts a lot. They’ve been much better, there’s no other choice but to think about next season.”
When asked about his future, Ancelotti was similarly upbeat, and he fully anticipates sitting on the bench for Real Madrid in the upcoming campaign.
“Next season, I will be here to fight to win another Champions League. No one doubts me. I think the president was very clear 15 days ago. What he tells me in private, I’m not going to say here.”
Ancelotti has a contract at the Santiago Bernabeu until the summer of 2024.
Meanwhile, Man City will face Inter Milan in the UCL final on June 10 in Istanbul, Turkey, with the Citizens chasing the elusive treble.
City fans humiliate Real Madrid
There had been talks of City fans acting too elite and not getting behind their team with a proper atmosphere at the Etihad Stadium, but the night was different.
The stadium was packed and loud from start to finish with City’s white and blue colours all over the seats ahead of kickoff and supporters making themselves heard.
After City’s third goal, they hit the famous Poznan celebration – rising from their seats, turning their backs, and suggesting the game was already over, per ESPN.
Ancelotti angrily chews gum
Sports Brief reported earlier that Ancelotti cut a worried figure as he watched his Real Madrid side helplessly go down two-nil at half-time in their Champions League semi-final reverse tie against Man City.
Carlo seriously munch on his gum while he watched his side crumble against City
The Italian’s side came into the second leg at the Etihad Stadium with the tie poised at 1-1, with both teams eyeing a spot in the final against Inter Milan, yet he watched his side slip down two-nil by the break.
This decision is in preparation for their crucial Champions League semi-final clash with Manchester City.
Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid will be traveling to England for the second leg.
Ancelotti has identified Karim Benzema, Rodrygo Goes, and David Alaba as injured players who may be uncertain starters against Getafe.
“We still have some doubts with players who picked up knocks Tuesday and have not yet recovered,” said Ancelotti.
“(Ferland) Mendy and (Dany) Ceballos will return, they can play tomorrow.
“I won’t be taking risks as we have fresh players but it will be a very demanding match against an opponent that’s fighting against relegation.”
Ancelotti added he did not know if Vinicius Junior, scorer of Madrid’s goal against City, would start but that he would feature.
“The players who have doubts are not going to play and those who do play have time to recuperate,” he said.
The Italian insisted however that he would field a “competitive” lineup against Getafe in a game which Madrid must win to have any hope of overhauling runaway leaders Barcelona.
Ancelotti dismissed suggestions that other clubs in the relegation battle might feel aggrieved at Madrid playing with a weakened team.
“We’ll try to win tomorrow with the best team possible,” he said.
“I’ll try to preserve tired players but those who are available will play.”
The introduction of theVideo Assistant Referee (VAR) a few seasons ago was intended to aid officials in making accurate decisions during games.
While it may have caused a loss of momentum in some instances, it did assist in several situations.
However, when the VAR makes an incorrect decision, it can create a chaotic scenario, as seen with Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid on May 9.
Ancelotti, who rarely appears agitated, was visibly frustrated by the incident.
He is the epitome of calmness and sobriety on the touchline but against Manchester City, he was absolutely sure his team had been robbed.
KDB’s goal should not count
Kevin De Bruyne had just scored a thunderbolt to equalise proceedings. There was nothing wrong with the Belgian’s shot, only that a few seconds earlier, Bernardo Silva had retrieved the ball after it had crossed the line for a throw-in, but the officials failed to spot it.
VAR failed to review the incident and Ancelotti was so furious that he got himself booked. One can only imagine the scenes if that becomes the goal that eliminates Real Madrid next week.
As history shows, there have been more scandalous decisions in the Champions League in the past; goals and decisions that stood that weren’t supposed to.
Let’s take a look at some of these controversies.
1. RVP’s red card at Camp Nou
Well, this was more of a harsh booking. This game was characterised by Jack Wilshere’s masterclass, helping Arsenal carry a 2-1 advantage to the second leg.
Barcelona V Arsenal
The Champions league
Picture; Andy Hooper
Van persie sent off
Robin Van Persie was through on goal but fluffed his shot wide, only to turn around and see the offside flag raised.
The centre referee adjudged the Dutchman had kicked the ball away after hearing the whistle and he sent him off on a second yellow. Arsenal would go on to lose the tie 4-3.
2. Luiz Adriano at Shakhtar
The Brazilian striker enjoyed a glittering nine-year spell in Ukraine, but it was marked by a few dubious moments. The biggest of them all was a group stage match against Nordsjælland in 2012.
Adriano got a hat-trick in that game, but his first goal elicited reactions. Willian, then at Shakhtar, had played the ball back to the opposition, as fair play after an injury.
To everybody’s bewilderment, Adriano chased down the ball, rounded the goalkeeper and scored. The referee allowed it to stand.
Like everyone else, Nordsjælland’s goalkeeper had expected the ball to roll back to him so that he could restart play, but the opposition man had other ideas.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Bayern Munich
As Thomas Muller will tell you, Cristiano Ronaldo has always been the antidote to Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Only that in 2017, the Bavarians’ faithful felt aggrieved after he scored two goals from an offside position.
The five time Ballon d’Or winner put the ball past Manuel Neuer in extra time while in an offside position. Minutes later, the same happened when Marcelo squared the ball to him while he was in front of the ball, which technically, is not allowed.
Both goals were allowed to stand. While VAR had not been introduced then, it did not make the decisions any less scandalous.
For Ancelotti and his troops, they can only hope that De Bruyne’s goal won’t be the difference in this tie – because such defeats sting.
Courtois sure Madrid will progress
Sports Brief also reported that Thibaut Courtois is optimistic about the chances of Real Madrid progressing to the UCL final ahead of his side’s second-leg semi-final clash with Man City.
Vinicius Junior and De Bruyne traded breathtaking goals as Los Blancos and the Citizens shared the spoils in the first leg of their last four blockbuster at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Madrid’s veteran shot-stopper, Courtois – who pulled off some stupendous saves in the tie – is confident his side will have the last laugh regardless of Man City’s impregnable home record.
Kolo Toure, a former Manchester City defender, believes it’s just a matter of time before the club wins the Champions League under their current manager, Pep Guardiola.
City are currently aiming for a treble and are set to face Real Madrid, who have won the European competition a record 14 times, in the first leg of a highly anticipated semi-final match on Tuesday at Santiago Bernabeu.
Despite Guardiola having lost six out of nine Champions League semi-finals, no other manager has lost more at this stage.
But Toure is convinced a City success in Europe’s elite club competition will come sooner rather than later and believes this could be the year for Guardiola to win his third Champions League crown, and first with City.
“It is a matter of time, we all know that and you can see that,” Toure, who played for City between 2009 and 2013, told Stats Perform.
“City has been dominant in the Premier League, of course.
“And in Champions League, they haven’t got as far, but they’ve been so unlucky a few times. In football, you need that luck element, it’s maybe that one or two per cent.
“At the moment it doesn’t go to Man City, but you can feel it’s coming. For Pep, he knows it is coming anyway.
“He is breeding the team he wants. Of course, when you’re not winning it and for a manager of his stature, everybody is just trying to put the pressure on, but there’s no pressure because within the Champions League you play against unbelievable teams.
“Keep calm, keep the process, keep improving the team if it doesn’t work. Sometimes they are teams who will press very well. You have to be able to value the game, you cannot be predictable.
If they know you’re going to pass short, they will go at you, and you can lose the ball and that can be damaging.
“And there are moments you have to feel as a player that, ‘we have to go over because this guy is pressing so well’. City have that and for me, it can help them to reach the Champions League [final].
“You just need to find that key element with which will help them to win that Champions League, which for me is coming.”
This season Carlo Ancelotti’s side have already seen off Liverpool and Chelsea in the knockout stages, but Toure is confident City can progress after beating RB Leipzig 8-1 on aggregate and then ruthlessly dismissing Bayern Munich 4-1 over two legs.
Toure said: “For me, when I look at both teams, I see City going on further because I believe that they have the right team. Now, when I say the right team, I mean they are really well-balanced.
“Defensively, they look really strong. In the middle they are strong, but at the same time, they are in form. They look really, really good this year.
“With [Manuel] Akanji signing, they look very good [in defence]. Going forward they have Erling Haaland which brings another dimension in the game because City always been a team that always want to play short ball all the time, but now Kevin De Bruyne can go over the top as well.
“One thing Pep has been doing really well this season, it’s been managing the [minutes] really well, managing the energy.
“Every time they’re winning 2-0 or 3-0, he just takes the key players out, to rest them to make sure they don’t get fatigued to make sure they don’t get injured.
“That management this season will help the players to be fresher because when you go to the end on the Champions League, it is right at the end of the season, and sometimes players are tired [physically] and they are mentally tired because they’ve been playing so many games. That will make you fatigued, that’s where you lose the lucidity that you need.
“A few years ago, you always saw them and at the end of the season not feeling that fresh because we’ve been over overworked really. But this season, I look at the Manchester City team and they look really fresh.”
After the match in Spain, City will travel to Everton in the Premier League on Sunday before the return leg against Madrid in Manchester on May 17.
Mario Gomez, a former European champion, believes that Real Madrid is “the best team of this generation” and that they have a good chance of winning the Champions League once more this year.
Madrid won their 14th European championship in spectacular way last season, defeating Manchester City, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in a series of intense knockout matches.
Los Blancos defeated Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final in Paris after making it there despite dropping a match in the round of 16, quarterfinals, and semis.
Gomez, a former striker for Bayern Munich, described Madrid as the “true beast” of Europe’s top club championship as Carlo Ancelotti’s team got ready to play them in a rematch of last year’s semifinal match.
“With Real Madrid, over the last 10 years, how many times have we thought, ‘it is over for them’, and they just come back every time,” Gomez said in an interview with the Go Turkiye YouTube channel.
“They are the true beast of the Champions League, absolutely unbelievable.
“Since I was very little, I have been a Barcelona supporter, but I really enjoy this Real Madrid side.
“They believe until the last second, so, for me they are the best team of this generation.
“For that reason, I think that they will go really far. I don’t know if they will win it, because football is unpredictable, but they can reach the final.”
Turkey striker Cenk Tosun was speaking alongside Gomez, and having worked with Ancelotti during a stint in the Premier League with Everton, he believes the Italian could be set for more glory in Istanbul next month.
“It is always a special event to have theChampions League final here in Turkey,” Tosun said. “Of course, Real Madrid is the winner of last season and a clear favourite.
“They have the same manager as last year, Mr. Ancelotti. I worked with him at Everton and I really like him, he is a special person for me, so I would pick Real Madrid to win it.”
Gomez appeared as a substitute as Bayern beat Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund in the 2013 Champions League final, as part of a memorable treble won by Jupp Heynckes’ team.
Reflecting on that win, Gomez said: “It was one of the most beautiful days in my life, because we were in the final one year before against Chelsea, and we lost [on penalties].
“To this day nobody knows how we lost that game. In 2012-13 we really had the power and energy to show people that it was our year, it was our time.
“The final wasn’t that good. Dortmund were as strong as us, if not better, but in the end, we got the trophy. When we got handed the trophy and lifted it in front of the fans, it was amazing.
“The four years I spent there were just incredible. There were so many special players in that team.
“I’ll start with the two wingers. They were the stars and I was just the finisher. On the left-hand side we had Franck Ribery.
“On the other wing, Arjen Robben. Totally different from Franck. He always wanted to finish.
“With Arjen I always had to predict the keeper’s movement, and if they saved his shot, I was there for the rebound. I scored many goals liked that!”
Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid, has emphasized the importance of stopping Manchester City as a team and not just their star striker, Erling Haaland, in their upcoming Champions League semi-final match on Tuesday.
The 14-time champions will be hosting the hungry visitors led by the Norwegian hitman who has scored 51 goals in 45 games across all competitions, including 12 in eight Champions League matches.
However, Ancelotti believes that City is an unstoppable force as a team, and his strategy is to try and foil their entire squad.
“Obviously Haaland is a very dangerous player. He’s showing impressive qualities, above all in goalscoring. He’s a threat obviously,” Ancelotti told a news conference Monday.
“Just talking about Haaland means not talking about a complete team that plays good football, defends well, attacks, that has ideas.
“We’re not setting up for a game to stop Haaland, but to stop a team that seems unstoppable, but I think we can have chances to have an equal game, one that we can win.”
City have been foiled time and time again in their quest to win the Champions League, but Haaland’s lethal edge gives them a strong chance of beating Madrid and reaching the final.
Ancelotti said he thought Manchester City have more avenues to cause danger with Haaland in the side.
“It’s a more complete team than last year. They had a very good forward in Gabriel Jesus, but he has different characteristics to Haaland,” continued the Italian coach.
“Today, they can take advantage more of long balls, because they have a very tall striker, and behind him is (Kevin) De Bruyne, so they can win balls in the air.
“They have not changed their style, they are very well organised at the back and a team that handles the ball very well.”
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney recently suggested City would “blow away” Madrid in the tie, a comment which Los Blancos midfielder Toni Kroos laughed off.
Madrid beat Manchester City in last season’s semi-finals despite losing in the first leg, and the German was quick to recall it.
“It was the same a year ago, no? That Madrid were out, and we did it,” Kroos told reporters.
“I remember words from last year, not Rooney’s — who is a guy I like a lot, apart from what he said — but it doesn’t affect us.
“It doesn’t motivate us more either, because it’s impossible to be more motivated than we are.”
Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney recently suggested City would “blow away” Madrid in the tie, a comment which Los Blancos midfielder Toni Kroos laughed off.
Madrid beat Manchester City in last season’s semi-finals despite losing in the first leg, and the German was quick to recall it.
“It was the same a year ago, no? That Madrid were out, and we did it,” Kroos told reporters.
“I remember words from last year, not Rooney’s — who is a guy I like a lot, apart from what he said — but it doesn’t affect us.
“It doesn’t motivate us more either, because it’s impossible to be more motivated than we are.”
Brazilian forward Rodrygo scored twice, once in each half, to secure the victory and Real Madrid’s 20th title in the competition.
The opening goal came just two minutes into the game when Vinicius created an opportunity for Rodrygo to score with a well-placed shot.
This was Osasuna’s second appearance in the final and they were unable to mount a comeback against the reigning champions. The result was reported by BBC.
Lucas Torro will draw parity for the underdogs however Rodrygo was on hand to deliver Real Madrid their first Copa triumph in almost a decade when he slotted home from close range after Toni Kroos’ shot deflected into his path.
After the blast of the whistle, the playing body switched into a jubilant mood following their triumph and gleefully posed for a team photo on the podium.
But one player, Eden Hazard, did not seem happy, perhaps with himself, despite adding another title to his growing trophy cabinet during his stint with Madrid.
Hazard has endured a bittersweet time with the La Liga giants, winning every possible trophy with Real Madrid but has seen game time being few and far between, especially under Carlo Ancelotti.
According to Transfermarkt, the ex-Belgian skipper is in his final year and looks likely to exit the Bernabeu when his current contract expires in the summer.
Rodrygo, Vinicius inspire Madrid’s Copa triumph
Rodrygo Goes fired Real Madrid to Copa del Rey glory with a clinical double in a 2-1 victory over Osasuna in Seville on Saturday, with Brazilian compatriot Vinicius Junior playing a part in both goals, Sports Brief reported.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid earned their 20th Spanish Cup at La Cartuja in their 40th final, ending a nine-year wait to lift the trophy again.
Madrid have now won all six of the trophies available to them during Ancelotti’s second reign at the club after the Italian returned in 2021.
Barcelona congratulates Real Madrid
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that following the end of the game, Real Madrid’s El Clasico nemesis put aside their age-old rivalry to congratulate the Spanish capital club on their most recent feat.
The Catalan giants took to the micro-blogging App, Twitter, to send a classy message to Los Blancos, which read: “Congrats to Real Madrid, the Copa del Rey Champions!”
Madrid remains the second most successful club in the Copa del Rey, only behind Barcelona, who boast a staggering 31 trophies.
Carlo Ancelotti, the coach of Real Madrid, believes that the Copa del Rey final against Osasuna on Saturday might be his last game in charge, despite the fact that he has previously had the same belief and been proven incorrect, he said on Friday.
The 63-year-old Italian, who throughout his illustrious career has collected numerous championships with teams like Los Blancos, AC Milan, Chelsea, and others, explained how he approaches championship games.
“Playing a final is always exciting, I always think before a final that, personally, it could be my last,” said Ancelotti, ahead of the clash at La Cartuja in Seville.
“I thought that in 2003, and it wasn’t the last, and I think that today, it could be the last today.
“You have to enjoy it, and I ask the players to enjoy it too because they are special games.”
Ancelotti lifted his first Coppa Italia as a coach in 2003 with AC Milan, going on to win four Champions League trophies in his glittering career among several other cups.
Madrid’s last Copa del Rey triumph was under Ancelotti in 2014, when they beat rivals Barcelona in the final.
Los Blancos thrashed the Catalans 4-0 at Camp Nou in the semi-final second leg to progress to the final.
Madrid host Manchester City in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday but Ancelotti said his team would be completely focused on the Copa final.
“Tomorrow we will go out there without thinking about what’s happening the next day,” insisted Ancelotti.
“We will go out with all the energy in the world to win another title. The players are motivated.”
Ancelotti even said his team needed to celebrate victory if they achieve it, despite the impending clash with Pep Guardiola’s side.
“When you win, you have to celebrate it,” said the coach.
“There are (different) ways of celebrating it — we like to celebrate with the fans.”
The coach reiterated that his Madrid contract expires at the end of next season, when he was asked about his future amid links to the Brazilian national team.
Ancelotti confirmed that midfield maestro Luka Modric was fit to face Osasuna after injury but did not confirm if the Croatian would start, with Madrid aiming to lift the Spanish cup for the 20th time.
The coach did say Austrian defender David Alaba was also fit and would be starting after a calf problem.
Following President Florentino Perez’s alleged emergency meeting withCarlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s most recent defeat is starting to cause the club’s management some concern.
After being well outplayed by Real Sociedad in Tuesday night’s 2-0 setback at the Reale Seguros Stadium, Los Blancos dropped their seventh La Liga match of the year.
Before Real Madrid’s critical games in the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Champions League, Ancelotti has been told to halt the unsightly trend of losses, according to Football Espana.
The La Liga giants are facing a season-defining few days including the Spanish cup culmination against Osasuna on Saturday, May 6.
Ancelotti will lead his squad against Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final a few days later, as Los Blancos continue the defence of the title they won last season.
Madrid: No Ancelotti replacement plan
Meanwhile, Real Madrid has yet to make plans to replace veteran Italian manager, Ancelotti at the end of the season, Madrid Universal reports.
The 2022/23 season has been up and down, with the La Liga champions failing to defend their title despite reaching the Copa del Rey final and the Champions League semi-finals.
As of now, everything for the upcoming season is being planned with Ancelotti in charge of Real Madrid, despite reports linking the veteran manager to the vacant Brazil national position.
Brazil gives Ancelotti deadline
Meanwhile, Sports Brief reported on Brazil losing patience with Ancelotti, giving the Real Madrid manager an ultimatum to either accept or reject their offer to become their national team coach.
The five-time world champions have identified the Italian as their preferred option to take over from Tite, who resigned from his position following the Selecao’s ousting from the 2022 World Cup.
Ancelotti has publicly stated the Brazilian FA has contacted him about the national job but remains coy about committing his future to theSouth American giants when the 2022/23 season ends.
Carlo Ancelotti has urged authorities to administer “justice” in order to shield Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior from hostile opponents.
During another strong LaLiga season, Vinicius has contributed 18 goal involvements (10 goals, 8 assists), but the Brazilian has frequently faced harsh treatment from rival defenders.
The winger was once again the target of attention during Tuesday’s 4-2 loss at Girona, receiving a booking for his enraged reaction to Santiago Bueno’s harsh ball-kicking.
Vinicius has drawn 113 fouls in LaLiga this season, comfortably the highest tally in the competition – Rayo Vallecano’s Isi Palazon is second with 87.
Vinicius has also been targeted by racist chants from opposing supporters on multiple occasions this term, causing LaLiga to release several statements in support of the 22-year-old.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Almeria, Ancelotti repeated his calls for Vinicius to receive more protection on and off the pitch, saying: “He’s a player that dribbles one-on-one. In order to stop these players, people stop them with fouls.
“We are concerned for our player, and the only way to preserve these players is justice. Only this can prevent injuries from happening.
“It’s true thatVinicius suffers a lot of nasty tackles. In the past there were other players, like Diego Maradona and Pele, who also suffered a lot from these challenges.
“We have been very lucky that Vinicius has a strong physique and is capable of enduring them. He has not had any injuries.
“There are two topics – one inside the pitch and one outside the pitch. One of them, on the outside, is bad for society. A modern society cannot be like that.”
Due to a thigh injury, Luka Modric may miss Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey final match against Osasuna as well as the first leg of the Champions League semifinal versus Manchester City.
During Madrid’s unexpected 4-2 loss to Girona on Tuesday, which kept them 11 points behind LaLiga’s top team Barcelona, Modric suffered an injury to his left leg.
The setback comes at a bad moment for Los Blancos as they prepare to visit City three days after trying to break a nine-year drought by winning the Copa del Rey on May 6.
Asked about Modric’s fitness ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Almeria, Ancelotti acknowledged losing the Croatian’s experience would be a big setback.
“He got an injury in the game against Girona. We will see how he progresses in the next few days,” Ancelotti said.
“He will be doubtful for the Copa final. We must evaluate him, we are hurt, but it can happen. I hope he recovers for the important matches.
“We have very important midfielders like Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni. We have many resources.
“But to replace Luka… you cannot replace his experience in these kinds of games.”
Madrid have won just four of their past nine league games (D2 L3) to allow Barca to pull clear at the summit.
Pushed on why Madrid had failed to replicate their cup heroics inLaLiga this term, Ancelotti said: “I don’t know, it’s a matter of concentration, it’s normal, not always being able to be at the top.
“The schedule is very demanding and I see many coaches complaining about this. We are human and it’s the truth, sometimes I can’t prepare all the games in the same way either.
“In some games you concentrate better, and in others it’s worse. It happens to everyone, good days and bad ones.
“You have to trust the players. I see the group in great shape. What happened last season was unforgettable and we want to repeat it.”
Two yearsafter leaving Real Madrid as manager once more, Zinedine Zidane might be ready for a shock return this summer.
Carlo Ancelotti’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu is uncertain in light of Los Blancos’ shaky defence of their La Liga championship this year and the interest shown in him by Brazil’s national squad.
If Ancelotti were to depart, the Spanish powerhouses would require a new head coach, and it appears like Zidane would be a leading contender to replace the former Chelsea boss.
According toFoot Mercato, Real Madrid are in contact with Zidane over possibly returning for a third spell as head coach. The Frenchman has been out of work since leaving in 2021, but that could be about to change.
Zizou resigned from his post in 2018 but following Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari’s brief disappointing spells in charge of Madrid, the three-time FIFA Player of the Year returned to the club less a year later.
Zidane’s managerial career
The 50-year-old enjoyed two special stints as manager of Real Madrid, leading the club to a hat-trick of Champions League triumphs in his first spell, along with several other titles and won the La Liga title in his second stint.
Zidane led Real Madrid to as many as 11 trophies across two spells before stepping away in 2021, perMadrid Universal.
Since then, he has been unattached and has been waiting for the France national team job. But with Didier Deschamps renewing his contract, that is no longer an option.
Ancelotti apologises to Real Madrid fans
Earlier, Sports Briefreported Real Madrid saw any hope of them retaining their La Liga title disappear after they were embarrassingly thrashed 4-2 by Girona on Tuesday night.
Despite having 72% possession, Los Blancos, who had not conceded a goal in La Liga in their previous six games, were outplayed by the Catalans and created far fewer chances than the hosts.
Carlo Ancelotti has now apologised to the Real Madrid fans following the embarrassing defeat. He has vowed that the team will bounce back in its remaining competitions.
Brazil has no intention of waiting forever forCarlo Ancelotti and have given the Real Madrid manager an ultimatum to accept or reject their offer to become their national team coach.
The five-time World champions have identified Ancelotti as their preferred option to take over from Tite, who resigned from his position following Brazil’s ouster from the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Ancelotti has publicly revealed that the Brazilian FA has contacted him but remains coy about committing his future to the South American giants when the 2022/23 season ends.
Brazilian authorities have now given Ancelotti until May 25th to respond to their offer as they seek to quickly fill the post that has been vacant since December 2022.
If Ancelotti accepts the Brazil job, it will become the Italian’s first national team job after successes in club football with top teams like AC Milan, Real Madrid and Chelsea.
Real Madrid line up Ancelotti replacement
Meanwhile,Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has identified club legend Xabi Alonso as a potential replacement for manager Carlo Ancelotti if the Italian leaves this summer, Sportskeeda reports.
Ancelotti is currently under contract at the Santiago Bernabeu until the summer of 2024, but the Italian could leave the club early to take over as coach of the Brazil national team.
Perez is interested in bringing Alonso back to Real Madrid as coach, as the Spaniard has done wonders in his brief managerial career with Bayer Leverkusen, which he joined in October 2022.
Ancelotti apologises to Real Madrid fans
Earlier, Sports Brief reported Real Madrid saw any hope of them retaining their La Liga title disappear after they were embarrassingly thrashed 4-2 by Girona on Tuesday night.
Despite having 72% possession, Los Blancos, who had not conceded a goal in La Liga in their previous six games, were outplayed by the Catalans and created far fewer chances than the hosts.
Carlo Ancelotti has now apologised to the Real Madrid fans following the embarrassing defeat. He has vowed that the team will bounce back in its remaining competitions.
Real Madrid’s humiliating 4-2 loss to Girona away on Tuesday is intended to act as a wake-up call, according to Carlo Ancelotti.
Taty Castellanos scored twice for Madrid against Montilivi, giving them a 2-0 deficit after 24 minutes. Madrid never held the lead.
Vinicius Junior scored a goal to restore parity, but Castellanos scored two more goals in the second half before Lucas Vazquez scored a late consolation.
Castellanos became the first player this century to score four goals in one LaLiga game against Madrid, and the defeat means Barcelona could extend their lead at the summit to 14 points on Wednesday.
While Madrid’s LaLiga hopes are all but over, they are into the Champions League semi-finals and final of the Copa del Rey – they still have much to play for this term, and Ancelotti hopes this defeat jolts them back into life.
Asked if the loss could be a wake-up call, Ancelotti said: “Yes, it can be, although a loss is never good.
“I reiterate the importance of defensive commitment: if we have that, we will always win, and if not, it will cost us. That is the key, our key, and today we didn’t have it.
“Of the last seven games, we kept six clean sheets, and in this game, [we conceded] four goals. I hope my players have understood. If not, I will repeat it to them every day.”
He found the individual level lacking across the team and felt they did not work collectively after finding themselves in trouble
“It’s tough, because when you lose it has to be tough,” he added. “The game was bad in defence and that has been the key, because we did well with the ball, especially at the beginning.
“But we weren’t forceful in duels, they caught us on two counters… and from there, everything became more difficult.
“We tried to come back individually, not as a team, because today the team has not played. The individual level was also below normal, but not just for some, rather in general. The level was very low.”
Lionel Messi has previously hinted that a return to Barcelona may be in the works after being seen in Spain socialising with former teammates.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires in the summer, and Barcelona is eager to reunite with him and is one of the favourites to sign him.
Messi reportedly had supper with his former Barcelona colleagues Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets on Monday night before being photographed exiting a restaurant in Spain, according to Football Espana.
The PSG forward was mobbed by reporters and some of his many fans, who were all eager to take selfies and get the Argentine superstar’s signature as he left the restaurant.
It is the second time Messi has returned to Barcelona in two months, fuelling speculation that the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner might return to Camp Nou next season.
Defender welcomes Messi’s return
Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano defender, Ivan Balliu has welcomed the possibility of Messi returning to Barcelona in the summer, Barca Universal reports.
Balliu, who started his football career at the Catalans’ academy, said the veteran’s arrival would be welcomed and would will help La Liga grow furtherbeyond its current status.
Messi has been linked with a return to Barcelona after two years away, following his move to PSG in 2021 after his heartbreaking exit from Camp Nou.
Ancelotti unbothered by Messi’s return
Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on Carlo Ancelotti having no issues with Messi returning to Barcelona after he was asked about the Argentine’s possible return to Camp Nou.
The veteran’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain expires this summer and reports indicate both parties do not seem interested in renewing the deal beyond the current season.
Messi is considered a cult hero at Barcelona and the club’s fans have been highly anticipating his return to the team, where he spent 17 seasons before joining PSG in 2021.
Karim Benzema and Eduardo Camavinga will not travel with Real Madrid on Tuesday’s LaLiga trip to Girona, according to head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Ancelotti anticipates that the two will be ready again for Los Blancos’ home match against Almeria on Saturday, before they play Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final and Manchester City in their Champions League semifinal.
David Alaba is also expected to return for the Osasuna match on May 6 after missing the 2-0 victory over Celta Vigo on Saturday.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Ancelotti ran through the players he will have missing as his team attempts to close ground on leaders Barcelona.
“Benzema and Camavinga will miss out and [Dani] Ceballos has got accumulated cards,”he said. “Camavinga lasted the game [v Celta] but then he felt some discomfort from a knock. I think they should be available for Almeria.
“[Ferland] Mendy and Alaba won’t be there either. Alaba is recovering well and I don’t think he should be a problem for the Copa del Rey final.”
Elaborating on Benzema’s situation, Ancelotti added: “If he recovers from his knock, he’ll play against Almeria.
“He’s hugely important for us. He’s shown a fantastic level in recent games and you keep that up by playing, not by resting. If he’s fit, he wants to play and that’s what we want as well.”
The gap at the top of LaLiga remains 11 points with eight games to play after Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 on Sunday, and Ancelotti is keen to close that to better reflect what he believes is a true representation of how close the Clasico rivals are.
“If we’re talking about the quality of the two teams, there’s no way there should be 11 points between us, and that’s been clear in the games we’ve played against each other,” he said. “We’re two evenly matched sides and the deficit has come about through small details. We want to cut it down.”
Despite their victory against Celta, there were more concerns about the surface at the Santiago Bernabeu, which has been affected by the ongoing renovations at the famous stadium.
Marco Asensio scored and assisted in the game, but also hit a wayward shot in the second half that appeared to bobble up off the surface, and Ancelotti previously confirmed it will be replaced before they play City on May 9.
“Every team wants to play on a beautiful pitch,” Ancelotti said. “We are aware of the problems we have at the Bernabeu and we won’t complain.
“We’re talking about something which is clear to see, our playing surface is suffering due to the ongoing works and they will fix that as soon as possible.”
A little less than two weeks ago, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly made the call to legendary Blues player Frank Lampard, asking him to return and try to right the ship.
It might have been Carlo Ancelotti speaking to the American in a different reality.
Ancelotti, who will be playing for Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinal second leg match on Tuesday, will instead return to the Stamford Bridge dugout simply as an adversary.
It was Madrid president Florentino Perez who brought the Italian back for a second stint at the helm, after Zinedine Zidane walked away again in 2021.
Ancelotti’s Madrid picked off the Blues in the first game, carving out a 2-0 lead through Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio, and they could have added further goals as they controlled proceedings.
At the other end former Chelsea duo Thibaut Courtois and Antonio Rudiger made important saves and blocks to leave Lampard’s side empty-handed.
Ancelotti’s return toChelsea evokes warm memoriesof one of the finest ever Premier League sides, which he led to the club’s first ever league and FA Cup double in 2010, halcyon days in stark contrast to the Blues’ recent slump.
The Italian’s Chelsea side featured big characters including Didier Drogba, John Terry, Michael Ballack and Lampard himself, and they racked up 7-0, 7-1 and 8-0 triumphs at the Bridge as they strolled to domestic glory.
Chelsea’s current hodgepodge of players lacks both the leadership and quality of that group, as was laid painfully bare in their defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu last week.
“I am sad, yes,” said Ancelotti before that clash. “I have a fantastic memory of this club, of the people that are still working there.
“I’m a supporter of Chelsea, of course, because I spent two really nice years there.
“I think and I hope Lampard will be able to do a fantastic job with them.”
It was a generous line from Ancelotti, but the Italian will hope his coach is nowhere near as magnanimous on Tuesday under the lights in London.
Ancelotti was let go by then-owner Roman Abramovich in 2011, ending his brief but memorable two-season spell in charge.
Safe hands
Madrid are aiming to win a record-extending 15th Champions League, defending the title after their triumph over Liverpool last season, and looked streets ahead of the 2021 victors in the Spanish capital.
Despite not being first choice — or second, or third — for the job, Ancelotti was chosen as a safe pair of hands and also helped Madrid lift La Liga last season too.
Like Zidane before him, is showing excellent man management is a vital skill for Los Blancos coaches — although not the only one, as he was at pains to point out.
“I am ‘fantastic’ at managing but there are other things, because this team is well-trained,” said Ancelotti before the first leg.
“If we win the Copa del Rey, we will have won every title possible in two years and there are teams who won’t win that in their whole lives.”
Ancelotti has kept squad players like Dani Ceballos, Nacho Fernandez and Asensio both hungry and helpful, with the latter netting again at Cadiz at the weekend. Most of them, anyway.
Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard has remained a fringe presence and his former fans will hope not to see him on Tuesday –- if the Belgian appears, it will mean Madrid have clinched progression and the key players are getting rested.
“The door is open and it’s up to us to kick it open further,” said Lampard after the first leg defeat, angling for a comeback.
It will be music to Ancelotti’s ears, with his team so lethal on the break against desperate sides and the coach wise enough to play to their strengths.
The 63-year-old has lifted the trophy six times, twice as a player, and four times in the dug-out, recently observing he is approaching his 1,300th game as a coach.
His experience and stability are in stark contrast to Chelsea’s haphazard project, and on Tuesday they may help him highlight chasms where he once left silverware and memories.
In “respect” for the La Liga team, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti is unlikely to weigh in on rumours of a move to Chelsea or Brazil while he is still in that position.
Even though the Italian’s contract with Real Madrid still has one year left, in recent weeks, he has been mentioned as a possible option to fill open positions with the Blues and the Selecao.
This week’s Champions League matchup pits Ancelotti against Chelsea, the team he previously spent two years with and helped win the Premier League and FA Cup double in 2009–10.
But ahead of his quarter-final reunion, he has adamantly played down speculation of an exit from Santiago Bernabeu to take up the reins elsewhere.
“There’s a nice saying which is just right,” he told Radio Rai 1. “[It is] the wind carries away the chatter.
“That is it. I have a contract until June 30, 2024, and I would like to respect it.”
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) April 9, 2023
Ancelotti returned to Madrid in 2021 and guided the club to LaLiga glory in his first season, completing a clean sweep of all five major European league titles in his career.
The defence of an additional Champions League triumph has become the club’s main aim this season amid a widening domestic battle to catch Barcelona.
Chelsea are searching for a permanent successor to Graham Potter, having turned to another former boss in Frank Lampard to guide them through the end of the season.
Brazil, meanwhile, are yet to name Tite’s replacement following a disappointing quarter-final exit at the Qatar 2022 World Cup, with under-20 coach Ramon Menezes in charge on a temporary basis.
Karim Benzema, Luka Modric, and Toni Kroos, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti, will remain at Real Madrid for the upcoming campaign.
The contracts for the seasoned trio expire this summer, but Ancelotti claimed “they are talking” about fresh agreements.
At Real Madrid since 2014, former German midfielder Kroos, 33, has won four Champions League titles, while former France striker Benzema, 35, and Croatian midfielder Modric, 37, have each won five.
“I think that in the end they will look for a solution,” said Ancelotti.
“There are advances because they are talking.”
Real have begun to prepare for the future by signing Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Ceballos, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde since 2016.
And although Kroos and Modric have played slightly less often this season, Benzema remains the team’s top scorer and claimed a hat-trick in Wednesday’s Copa del Rey win over Barcelona, which all three started.
“You can think the three don’t have the physical profile or energy of the younger players, but what these three have in terms of game management is unique, you can’t buy it on any market in the world.
“This is born with experience – age takes something from you, but it gives you something back as well.”
InCarlo Ancelotti’s opinion, managing Barcelona is “not a possibility” because of his allegiance to Real Madrid, the “greatest club in the world,” which he has called.
While there are rumours that Ancelotti’s time at Real Madrid may be coming to an end and that Chelsea and Brazil are interested in the 63-year-old, he has won two Champions League titles and a LaLiga championship during his two stints with the club.
Ancelotti ruled out ever joining Madrid’s Clasico rivals, despite all the speculation about his incredibly successful management career’s future stop.
“For me, coaching Barcelona is impossible,” Ancelotti told reporters at his pre-match press conference ahead of Madrid’s LaLiga meeting with Villarreal on Saturday.
“After 1,272 games [as a coach], I don’t have to prove anything.
“I wouldn’t change myself. You have to respect my personal history and that of the clubs.
“I won’t change myself for anyone because I feel very comfortable here, where the people love me a lot. It’s the best club in the world.
“I am loved and I feel secure, so there is no reason for me to change Real Madrid for Barcelona.”
Ancelotti’s side thumped Barca 4-0 in the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final at Camp Nou on Wednesday to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit and confirm their place in the final against Osasuna.
Yet, Madrid lag 12 points behind the Catalan giants in LaLiga and their hopes of retaining the title look all but over.
Ancelotti does not feel his side have been significantly worse than last season, and instead credited Barca for their improvement, saying: “We want to end the season well.
“We only have four less points in the league than this stage last year… Barcelona has many more. We want to continue fighting for the league until the end.”
Ancelotti’s potential Madrid exit at the end of the season may be one of several major departures at the club, with the contracts of veterans such as Luka Modric, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema set to expire at the conclusion of this campaign.
The Italian believes the trio will extend their stays, though he remains confident Madrid will continue to enjoy future success even if they do opt to leave.
“I believe they will stay, but the day they stop, something is going to change,” Ancelotti added. “[But] we have to look for the club’s future along a different line, not the way [they play] with Kroos and Modric.
“We have fantastic youngsters like [Aurelien] Tchouameni, [Federico] Valverde, [Eduardo] Camavinga, [Dani] Ceballos, who are going to start an era, different from the others, of course.”
Karim Benzema has scored back-to-back hat-tricks for Real Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti thinks that he can win another Ballon d’Or.
After scoring three goals in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal against Barcelona last Wednesday, Benzema added three more goals in this week’s 6-0 LaLiga victory over Real Valladolid.
In a Madrid career spanning 14 trophy-laden seasons, it is the first time the former France international has scored consecutive hat-tricks.
Having won the Ballon d’Or for the first time in 2022 on the back of a superb year for Los Blancos, Ancelotti has backed Benzema to challenge for the individual accolade again.
“Why not?” Ancelotti said following his side’s 4-1 aggregate victory against Barcelona. “He remains one of the best players in the world – and not just attacking players.”
Benzema now has 25 goals in 31 appearances this season – a tally bettered by Robert Lewandowski (27), Marcus Rashford (28), Kylian Mbappe (31) and Erling Haaland (42).
That includes 19 goals in 19 games since the World Cup, while the 35-year-old’s back-to-back hat-tricks have come straight on the back of the international break.
“The work he did during the international break helped him a lot,”Ancelotti said of Benzema, who announced his latest retirement from France duty in December.
“He is in prime physical condition. With the qualities he has, he inevitably makes a difference for us.”
Real Madrid will face Osasuna, who beat Athletic Bilbao, in the Copa del Rey final on May 6.
As Real Madrid thrashed Clasico rivals Barcelona 4-0 at Camp Nou to suffer a 4-1 Copa del Rey semi-final aggregate loss, Xavi expressed disappointment in Barcelona’s inability to create “moments.”
Barca entered Wednesday’s return game at home with a one-goal edge thanks to an own goal by Eder Militao in the first leg at the Bernabeu.
Thibaut Courtois made a spectacular save to deny Robert Lewandowski before a wide-ranging counterattack resulted in Vinicius Junior tying the game. But, Barca’s dominating first half came to an end with a brief spell of play that would prove pivotal.
Madrid then sealed their progression with a brilliant second half, as Karim Benzema’s hat-trick put the 31-time winners out and set Carlo Ancelotti’s men up to meet Osasuna in the final on May 6.
Xavi was left frustrated by his team’s failure to match their first-half display, telling Movistar+: “It is a difficult night to digest. This is football.
“You have to compete better. We have competed well until 1-0. They are moments that we have to stop. We could have also stopped the 2-0 moment. In short, they are details that we have to control.
“In the first half we were very good, but that’s what I said: football is about moments and we didn’t take advantage of them.
“When football is so even, you have to take advantage of the moments. We didn’t do it in the first half and they did in the second. They have been superior, no excuses.”
4 – Real Madrid have scored at least four goals against Barcelona in any competition for the first time since May 2008 (4-1 in LaLiga), and had not done so at Camp Nou since January 1963 (1-5 in LaLiga).
Xavi credited Madrid for their excellent second-leg display, saying: “I already said yesterday that Madrid were favourites.
“We cannot argue that they are a great team. They are the LaLiga and Champions League champions and they do not forgive.
“When you don’t kill Madrid, they kill you.”
Despite the elimination, Xavi’s men hold a 12-point lead over Madrid at the top of LaLiga, and he is hoping his team can put this setback behind them to kick on and claim the title.
“We had a very bad second half, but we have to get up,” he said. “Tomorrow we will get up with all the hope to beat Girona.
“It is a tough result, but we have to focus on the league.”
Toni Kroos and Luka Modric were described by Carlo Ancelotti as “untouchable” at Real Madrid, but he did not guarantee that either midfielder would start against Barcelona.
Madrid travels to Camp Nou on Wednesday for the second leg of a Copa del Rey semifinal matchup in which they are down 1-0 thanks to an own goal by Eder Militao in the first meeting from a month ago.
Both Kroos, 33, and Modric, 37, started that game; however, they were both replaced late in the second half.
While Kroos played the duration of Madrid’s 6-0 win over Real Valladolid on Sunday, Modric was an unused substitute.
That would suggest Ancelotti was protecting the latter ahead of the third Clasico the space of a month, but Madrid’s coach declared neither of his veteran campaigners in midfield are guaranteed starters.
“Kroos and Modric are untouchable but that doesn’t mean they’re going to play tomorrow,” Ancelotti told reporters.
“There are many untouchables but then you have to choose an eleven. I have to think about the resources I have on the bench.
“Starting isn’t the most important thing, the important thing is to be effective [the game].”
While Kroos and Modric approach the twilight of their careers,Madrid are looking to build for the future with Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, who has been a consistent starter since the season resumed following the World Cup.
Asked about the importance of the physicality and athleticism that the France duo can provide, Ancelotti said: “If we talk about energy, it’s clear that in these games it’s important.
“An effective start from above can also give you an advantage.”
However, he acknowledged “there’s a lot of pressure in these games”, adding that “the experience of veterans can be important”.
With Madrid one of the clubs reportedly pushing to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham, Kroos and Modric could face uncertain futures.
They are both entering the final few months of their contracts, albeit renewals are said to be on the table.
“I see the players every day and they are very focused. It can be thought that when a contract ends it can affect them,” Ancelotti said.
“It doesn’t affect them and I don’t have to tell them anything because they are very professional.
“Each one has to evaluate the role they have. It is the discussion that a player has to make and if they want to renew it is because they like the role they have.”
Asked if he will discuss his team selection with any players left out of his starting XI, Ancelotti added: “Nothing special. I cannot talk to every single player who is not going to start.
“If they need to talk, my door is always open, but this group of players do not ask about explanations, they understand the situation, the moment.
“There are a lot of players who are very important, and the door will always be open to them.”
On Thursday, Messi scored the 800th goal of his professional career against Panama, bringing him one goal shy of 100 for the national team.
The Argentine sensation became the second-most prolific goal-scorer in history, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo by 30 goals.
Following Argentina’s victory in the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup in December, many football fans and pundits dubbed him “the greatest of all time.”
But the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is yet to convince the Italian tactician, who has named three football greats who are ahead of Messi. “Messi the best in history? He’s a great player but I can’t say who’s been the best,” Ancelotti was quoted as saying via GOAL. “There have been so many wonderful players… Maradona, Di Stéfano, Cruyff.. I don’t know.”
Van Gaal picks Ronaldo over Messi Louis van Gaal is among a number of high-ranking members of the football fraternity who have now delved into the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate.
Speaking on the legendary duo, the former Netherlands coach heaped praises on the two iconic superstars as the best players of their era. Van Gaal, 71, then disclosed his preference for the Portuguese legend in the GOAT debate.
“And the big question, Messi or Cristiano? The best players of this period are Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Choosing between them is difficult,” Van Gaal told Onda Cero, via Sportskeeda.
Gary Cahill speaks on GOAT debate
Elsewhere, former Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has weighed in on the Ronaldo versus Messi debate but struggled to choose the better player.
Cahill’s indecision looks quite honest as the two are close first and second in most football metrics and hard to separate.
The two are defying age and going strong.
Both scored freekicks for their countries, Argentina and Portugal, in their last international games against Panama and Liechtenstein.
Heinze snubs Messi in GOAT debate
Sports Brief earlier reported that Gabriel Heinze snubbed Messi in the GOAT debate and instead went for Portugal international Cristiano Ronaldo.
The former Argentina international played with Ronaldo for three years at Manchester United and with Messi in the national team but ignored his compatriot.
The 42-year-old said Ronaldo could not get better as he is already next to God in his abilities.
Vinicius Junior is delighted to be working with Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and the Brazilian national team in the future.
Ancelotti has been linked with the vacant managerial role following Tite’s departure after the South Americans’ heartbreaking World Cup exit, despite still having a contract with the La Liga giants.
Vinicius has risen to prominence under Ancelotti’s tutelage at Real Madrid, according to Madrid Universal. The veteran manager is now interested in becoming Brazil’s next manager, according to the forward.
Fellow Los Blancos star, Rodrygo earlier revealed he would love the Italian to take over as the national team manager after showing his admiration for the coach.
Ancelotti has been widely tipped to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season and perhaps an announcement on his future is not far off.
Ederson backs Ancelotti for job
Meanwhile, Manchester City goalkeeper, Ederson also believes Ancelotti will most likely be named as the next Brazil coach, Daily Mail reports.
The shot-stopper urged Brazil’s FA to seal the move after revealing he had spoken to national teammates, Casemiro, Eder Militao, and Vin Junior.
All three of these stars have worked under Ancelotti at Real Madrid but the Italian manager has never managed at the international level.
Real Madrid shortlist Ancelotti’s replacement
Sports Brief also reported on Real Madrid beginning the search for Ancelotti’s replacement as Real Madrid manager, following the club’s recent slump in form under the veteran Italian.
Club president, Florentino Perez is leaving no stone unturned as he tries to arrest Los Blancos’ poor run of results and will reportedly not mind a change in coaching if it is seen as needed.
It was reported Real Madrid have since shortlisted Castilla coach, Raul Gonzalezand former Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel as Ancelotti’s potential replacements in the club’s hot seat.
The goalkeeper for Manchester City, Ederson, recently expressed his opinions on the possibility of Carlo Ancelotti taking over as Brazil’s new head coach after leaving his position as manager of Real Madrid.
Months after Tite made the decision to resign following a lacklustre 2022 World Cup campaign, Brazil has yet to name a new head coach.
Ederson claimed he and his Brazilian teammates have been talking about the possibility, despite the fact that Ancelotti and Real Madrid have both recently refuted rumours that they would take over as Brazil’s new coach.
He said at a press conference;
“I was discussing this with Casemiro, Vinicius Junior, [Eder] Militão. There is a big possibility that he comes.
“Just look at his CV. We will know shortly whether he will be here or not. I hope we can have a new coach quickly. I feel the anticipation too because there’s too much speculation. Is it a Brazilian or a foreign coach? We are also living that phase of anxiety.”
After losing 2-1 to Barcelona in the Spanish La Liga, Real Madrid supporters are understandably furious and want Carlo Ancelotti fired. Madrid’s hopes of retaining the title are dashed by the loss, and the Catalans are now in position to win the trophy for the first time since 2019.
Ronald Araujo’s own goal gave Los Blancos the lead, but Sergi Roberto’s tuck just before halftime gave Barcelona the equaliser. Both teams had chances to win the game. Marco Asensio scored for Madrid, but VAR disallowed the goal because it was offside. Then, in the 92nd minute, Alejandro Balde set up Kessie to score.
After the game, Madrid fans took to social media to criticise Ancelotti for losing his third El Clasico game in the trot. Social media reactions
@deftonesIuvr tweeted: real madrid has 2 weeks to sack ancelotti and bring tuchel if they’re a serious club @MartinKlaus__ tweeted:
Now La Liga is over for us… let’s sack ancelotti and move on.
@KhaledM79788508 tweeted: If Perez is serious he’d sack ancelotti and sign tuchel within 24 hours.
@thearmah_ posted: Perez go start dey draft Ancelotti sack letter from the Camp Nou embarrassment today
@Anassyn said: We need to sack Ancelotti because of Barca. Three straight win against him. Haba.
@AvfcTomYoung tweeted: Madrid are boring to watch now, the quicker they sack Ancelotti the better!
Pep watches El Clasico Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola showed his support for the Blaugrana as she was spotted in the stands ahead of their El Clasico encounter with Real Madrid.
Pep was spotted in the stands with Johann Cruyff’s wife before the game started. Widely considered as Barcelona’s greatest manager, Guardiola was no slouch as a player either. As noted by the club’s website, he played 479 games for the side and scored 16 goals.
Vincius consoles Araujo Sports Brief reported earlier that Vinicius Junior demonstrated a touching gesture towards Ronald Araujo during Real Madrid’s weekend top liner against fierce rivals FC Barcelona at Camp Nou.
The Madrid winger has been in blistering form for Los Blancos this campaign, almost invincible against any defender, but often struggles whenever he comes up with Araujo.
In their latest clash on Sunday, the Brazilian duo came face to face for the umpteenth time this season, and it was Vinicius who appeared to have won the battle of wills.
After Vinicius Junior endured racist taunts once more duringReal Madrid’s goalless draw with Real Betis on Sunday, LaLiga filed a complaint at a Seville court.
Two games this season against Atletico Madrid involved racist taunts directed at Vinicius, and matches against Real Mallorca and Real Valladolid have also been the scene of alleged incidents.
During Sunday’s scoreless draw at the Estadio Benito Villamarin, a Betis fan was caught on camera shouting racist epithets at Vinicius, prompting LaLiga to once more turn to legal action.
“This is the seventh complaint made to the relevant authorities by LaLiga regarding racist insults against Vinicius Junior.”
Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti last month said racism was a problem throughout Spanish football, adding: “Vinicius is the victim of something that I don’t understand. It must be solved.”
Real Madrid lost the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final 1-0 to a Barcelona team, according to Carlo Ancelotti,who is confident that Real Madrid has the strength to recover.
Thursday’s smash-and-grab victory by Barca at the Santiago Bernabeu gave them a slim lead heading into the second meeting at Camp Nou the following month.
The game-winning goal was scored by Franck Kessie in the 26th minute after Thibaut Courtois blocked his initial shot. Eder Militao assisted on the play.
Barca had the least amount of ball possession in a single game since Opta records began, with just 35.3% of the time, while Madrid dominated the other areas (2013-14 season).
Similarly, Barca had less than 50% of the ball in a game for just the third time since the beginning of last year.
Ancelotti was unimpressed by Barca’s performance and remains confident Madrid will reach the final, despite Los Blancos failing to get a single shot on target for only the third time in a decade.
“The team played well,” he told reporters. “Barcelona played like they didn’t want to play.
“We haven’t been good in the last third. Defeat hurts, but if we do the same in the second leg, we have a chance to progress.
“We played the game we had to play: pressing, playing with intensity. We lacked a goal, but they did nothing to score. They were lucky with the rebound. We have 90 minutes [to turn it around].”
He added: “We’ve failed, but we did not deserve to lose. But in 90 minutes we can score a goal in Barcelona.”
Despite the obvious frustration in his voice, Ancelotti was undoubtedly impressed with how Madrid managed to control the majority of the game, forcing Barca to play mostly on the edge of their own box.
The 35-year-old, who retired from professional football last year, talked about his interactions with some of the coaches and teammates he played with during his 11-year stint at Stamford Bridge in an interview with Dubai Eye 103.8.
The winner of the 2013 Nations Cup also revealed some fascinating information about the warning signs that the club’s manager would be fired at a time when the team wasn’t doing well.
“We always had a meeting with Roman (Abramovich) once the team was not doing well. He comes in and has a chat with us (team), he sits down, and everybody sits.
“He had this guy who was his friend and interpreter, so he starts shouting and screaming in Russian and then goes off and says you guys go back now and play football and start winning.
“If we don’t do that, the next time he comes in, he flies in with his helicopter to the training ground and that is it, we know that the manager is gone.”
The ex-Super Eagles captain worked under eleven managers at Chelsea, including top football managers like Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, and Antonio Conte.
He made 249 appearances for the Blues, winning the EPL, UCL, Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup.
Real Madrid was forced to fight back in a frustrating 1-1 draw with 10-man rivalsAtletico Madrid, and Carlo Ancelotti admitted it will be “difficult” for Los Blancos to win LaLiga.
When Atleti substitute Angel Correa was controversially dismissed with Saturday’s derby tied at 0-0, Madrid would have liked their chances of closing the gap on league leaders Barcelona to five points.
Atleti then appeared to be heading for a memorable victory when Jose Gimenez gave them the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu, but late in the game, 18-year-old forward Alvaro Rodriguez saved Madrid’s face.
Ancelotti is aware of the difficulty of Madrid’s task given that the draw gives Barcelona the opportunity to extend their lead to 10 points when they travel to Almeria on Sunday.
Asked about the title race by DAZN, Ancelotti said: “It was already very difficult before this match, now it’s more. We are going to fight until the end, that’s what I can say.
“We lacked a bit of freshness. But mentally more than physically. At 1-0, it took us 10 minutes to compose ourselves, to reposition ourselves.
“In the first half there was a lack of intensity and in the second, we reached it at the end, but we didn’t fully take advantage of the numerical superiority.”
However, Ancelotti did reserve praise for Alvaro, who became the youngest player to score in a Madrid derby in LaLiga this century (aged 18 years and 226 days).
1 – Two different Uruguayan players (Álvaro Rodríguez and José María Giménez) have scored in a derby between Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid in LaLiga for the first time in the 21st century. Equality. pic.twitter.com/ofGwFN6pwi
Tuesday’s Champions League round of 16 match between Liverpool and Real Madrid will be the latest encounter between Jurgen Klopp and Carlo Ancelotti.
Their individual histories could have been very dissimilar.
In October 2015, after Everton and Liverpool drew 1-1 at Goodison Park, Thierry Henry reached across and put his hand on a perplexed Jamie Carragher’s knee in the Sky Sports studio as it was announced that Brendan Rodgers had been fired as the manager of the Reds.
In a matter of minutes, the front-runner Klopp was being discussed as the candidate most likely to take the club back to the pinnacle of European and English football.
The second favourite had been Ancelotti, out of work at the time following his exit from his first spell at Madrid, and Carragher argued that while the Italian had the more impressive CV, Klopp was the more suitable choice for the Anfield hotseat after his success at Borussia Dortmund.
“I think with either of those coming to Liverpool, the supporters would be ecstatic,” he said at the time. “If it were me, I would go for Klopp ahead of Ancelotti.” I think he’s got more to prove. Ancelotti is a great manager, of course, but he’s gone to clubs where you would expect to win trophies.
“Getting Liverpool back into the top four is now a difficult task.” Forget talking about the title. And I think it needs someone with that energy and drive to get Liverpool back to where it wants to be, and I think Jurgen Klopp’s that man.”
Of course, Carragher proved to be right about Klopp.
It will never be known what would have happened had Ancelotti been hired instead, but he has gone on to enjoy success at other clubs since, with spells at Bayern Munich, Napoli and Everton before heading back to the Santiago Bernabeu in December 2021.
The two have faced off numerous times in opposing dugouts, with the upcoming two-legged Champions League tie set to be their 12th and 13th meetings.
It is interesting how frequently Klopp and Ancelotti have come up against one another, especially considering the Italian’s 18-month spell at Everton was the only time they have managed in the same league.
They clashed on four occasions in Merseyside derbies – coincidentally after that had been the fixture that led to their names being linked with the Liverpool job back in 2015 – with two draws at Goodison Park in the Premier League and a 1-0 Liverpool win in an FA Cup third round game at Anfield.
The most notable encounter also came at Anfield in February 2021, with no fans in due to COVID-19 restrictions, where Ancelotti masterminded Everton’s first win at the home of their neighbours since the turn of the century.
Their other seven meetings have come in the Champions League, Klopp coming up against Ancelotti for the first time during his penultimate season at Borussia Dortmund as they took on Madrid in the last eight, losing 3-0 in the Spanish capital before a spirited but unsuccessful 2-0 reverse back in Dortmund.
Two goals from Marco Reus in the first half had given the German side hope of a comeback, but Ancelotti’s men put up the defences and managed to see the game out, a tactic that the Los Blancos head coach has used to good effect against Klopp on numerous occasions since.
He also frustrated Klopp in their first meeting as Liverpool and Napoli bosses respectively, with the Serie A side winning 1-0 at home in the 2018-19 group stage, restricting the Reds to just four shots – none on which were on target – as Lorenzo Insigne struck a late winner.
A Mohamed Salah goal in the reverse fixture was enough to send Liverpool through to the knockout stage with a 1-0 win at Anfield at Napoli’s expense, with the Reds going on to lift the trophy in Madrid that season.
The two teams were drawn together again in the group stage the following year, with Napoli again defeating Liverpool in Naples, 2-0 this time, while they played out a 1-1 draw back on Merseyside.
Klopp and Ancelotti would not meet again in the Champions League until after their brief Merseyside derby rivalry, somewhat appropriately in the final as Liverpool faced Madrid in Paris last season.
While the game was heavily distracted by the chaos outside prior to kick-off that an independent investigation has since claimed was the fault of UEFA and the French authorities, on the pitch it had a feel of Klopp’s previous struggles with Ancelotti.
Liverpool dominated large parts of the contest, but Madrid were largely able to contain them, though goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois still had to put in an outstanding performance to keep a clean sheet.
Ancelotti suggested after the 1-0 win thanks to a Vinicius Junior goal that Klopp’s team were “more decipherable” than others he had faced, but ahead of their next clash, the German coach lavished praise on his opposite number.
“Carlo is the most relaxed manager I ever met in my life,” Klopp said at his pre-match press conference. “One of the best people you can meet, fantastic person, a humble person, super smart and nice, and obviously his man management is at a completely different level to all of us, and I respect that a lot and admire it a lot.”
Ancelotti reciprocated at his press conference, saying: “I have a good relationship with Klopp. We stayed for a year and a half in Liverpool during the pandemic, and we used to text each other and exchange gifts. He’s a really lovely person.”
There is clear mutual respect there, strengthened by the duo’s personal achievements as well as how difficult they both find games against one another.
Klopp’s teams have only managed to find the net seven times against Ancelotti’s in 11 games, despite having 153 shots, suggesting the former Milan, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss knows how to restrict them to low-quality chances.
Ancelotti has relied on his team’s defensive solidity more often than not, and boasts the superior record with five wins to three defeats and three draws, but he has never been able to beat a Klopp team in an away game when fans have been in attendance, with a noisy Anfield on Tuesday a near certainty.
He surely takes slightly more pleasure in besting Liverpool than he does most other foes following one of his most painful defeats as a coach when his Milan side was beaten on penalties in the iconic 2005 Champions League final in Istanbul, despite leading 3-0 at half-time.
This season’s final will also be in the Turkish capital, but at least one of Liverpool or Ancelotti will not be there this time.
Klopp v Ancelotti. Germany v Italy. Beard v eyebrow. It is one of the great modern coaching rivalries, and round 12 should be another fascinating contest.
Real Madrid’s performance against Valencia was far from their best, but Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that Los Blancos nevertheless advanced to the Supercopa de Espaa final.
After a commanding first 45 minutes, Karim Benzema’s first-half penalty appeared to put Los Blancos on the winning track, but a resurgent Valencia quickly equalized through Samuel Lino.
Giorgi Mamardashvili made several saves in extra time to keep Gennaro Gattuso’s team in the game, but Madrid won on penalties after Eray Comert and Jose Gaya missed their opportunities.
Ancelotti admitted Madrid’s flaws after the lackluster 1-1 draw and the 4-3 shootout triumph, speculating that the World Cup break may have contributed to a lack of focus.
The Madrid head coach told reporters: “It hasn’t been a physical problem because in extra time we’ve done better than them. We’re not at the top but it’s normal.
“There are players who started a little while after the World Cup. We’ve put players who were on the limit like [Ferland] Mendy and [Dani] Carvajal.
“We wanted to reach the final and that’s what we’ve done. It’s a different moment from last year but I think we’re going to fight hard to win the Super Cup.”
Benzema, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos all converted their spot-kicks, with Ancelotti preferring to go with experience for his first three takers before Marco Asensio found the net with Madrid’s fourth penalty.
“I put the three players with the most experience, the best,” he added. “The last one was Vinicius [Junior] and it is better that he did not shoot.”
The victory did seemingly come at a cost, though, as Eduardo Camavinga, Eder Militao and Lucas Vazquez all sustained injuries.
“Camavinga has had a blow to the knee, Militao is dizzy and is fine,” Ancelotti continued. “Lucas has a sprain, that is the most serious. I don’t know if he will be in Sunday’s game.”
LaLiga leaders Barcelona, who Madrid trail by three points, or Real Betis await in Sunday’s final after the second semi-final in Saudi Arabia on Thursday.
Carlo Ancelotti has lamented Real Madrid’s late showing for inviting “unnecessary suffering” in what should have been a more comfortable victory over Cadiz.
Madrid will head into November’s World Cup break trailing LaLiga leaders Barcelona by two points after overcoming Cadiz 2-1 on Thursday.
Eder Militao’s second goal in as many games and a thunderous Toni Kroos volley seemingly had Madrid cruising to victory, before Lucas Perez’s 81st-minute strike ensured a nervy ending at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Ancelotti acknowledged there were a lot of positives to take from Madrid’s first victory in three league games, though the Blancos coach was frustrated to see his side concede late on.
“Yes, we played very well until 2-1. We were able to score 3-0 with [Luka] Modric, who had an easy chance,” the Italian told DAZN.
“Then it’s normal. It was unnecessary suffering. Three deserved points and we finished well [before the World Cup].”
Modric, who will aim for World Cup glory with Croatia in Qatar, missed a gilt-edged chance at 2-0 up as he fired wide of an open goal following Vinicius Junior’s offload.
The failure in front of goal did not come back to haunt Madrid, allowing Ancelotti to joke about the miss, saying: “I’ve told him Croatia have already given him the call-up, so he won’t have a problem.”
Cadiz attempted to ruffle Madrid feathers by imposing their physical presence, leading to six yellow cards being shown in an ill-tempered clash.
Vinicius voiced his displeasure in the first half after team-mate Rodrygo and centre-back Fali clashed off the ball, with Ancelotti stunned by the lack of retrospective VAR action.
“Yes, they told me that [Fali] punched [Rodrygo]. I saw a video and it seemed like an attack to me,” Ancelotti said of the altercation where Fali appeared to elbow the Madrid attacker.
The Cadiz defender suggested he may have let the heat of the moment get to him, too.
“In the end it’s true that I did hit him. He says it’s an elbow and I say no,” Fali said. “I try to stop him and try to grab him. The VAR sees it and gives me a yellow card.
“In this action maybe, I went a little too far. It is not to hurt him. The still image seems to be more than it is. I try to grab his head. He says that I elbowed him, and tell him I did not.”
Madrid will not be in action until a trip to Real Valladolid on December 31 after the break for the World Cup.
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has rebutted suggestions that Karim Benzema is unavailable for club action in order to keep him fit for the 2022 World Cup.
The France international is set to represent the defending champions in Qatar but enters the tournament with a lack of minutes, having last appeared domestically against Elche on October 19.
Those fitness issues will once again keep Benzema absent from Thursday’s trip to Cadiz, the final game before Qatar 2022, where Madrid are looking to bounce back after a surprise defeat to Rayo Vallecano on Monday.
Benzema’s recent absence has not resulted in any concerns that he could be missing for France, leading to suggestions that he may just be being rested to ensure he does not get injured ahead of the tournament.
“It has bothered me that he has not been able to help us with his quality – he has tried but he has not been able to come back from this small thing, so he is not available,” Ancelotti said in Wednesday’s press conference.
“I don’t have to say anything to anyone. The first disappointed person is Karim, who arrives at the World Cup without the necessary minutes to be in good condition.
“To think that he has been rested, I do not believe it, it is silly. He has not stopped; he has trained alone, but the feelings he had were not good.
“It means he arrives at the World Cup with few minutes in his legs.”
Asked whether Benzema ever felt his World Cup involvement was in doubt, Ancelotti added: “No, apart from that big injury against Celtic, it’s been two small things.”
Madrid’s defeat last time out leaves the defending LaLiga champions five points adrift of leaders Barcelona, albeit with a game in hand, and Ancelotti highlighted a drop in intensity as the reason for his side’s decline.
He added: “If you lower intensity against teams that do not play in Europe, such as Rayo, they can be at a higher level than the rest.
“It’s less noticeable when you’re playing against teams that do play in Europe.”
Carlo Ancelotti’slate substitutions paid off as Real Madrid secured a 3-1 LaLiga win over Sevilla on Saturday.
It had initially been a tale of two former Tottenham players as Luka Modric gave Madrid a quick lead on a wet night at the Santiago Bernabeu, before Erik Lamela equalised early in the second half.
Ancelotti’s changes made all the difference though, as Lucas Vazquez restored the champions’ advantage just after coming on, with fellow substitute Marco Asensio involved in the build-up, before he also laid on an assist for Federico Valverde to seal victory.
The champions showed they could cope without Karim Benzema, who paraded his Ballon d’Ortrophy on the pitch but was only a spectator due to muscular fatigue, as they moved six points clear of Barcelona at the top of the table.
It took just five minutes for Madrid to take the lead, with Vinicius Junior robbing Gonzalo Montiel before racing down the left and squaring a delightful ball for Modric to tap in at the far post.
Montiel made amends for his error in the 54th minute when he dispossessed Vinicius before playing a perfect ball through to Lamela, who flicked a shot with the outside of his left foot just below the despairing right hand of Thibaut Courtois.
Ancelotti brought on Asensio and Vazquez in the 77th minute and was rewarded just two minutes later.
Asensio played a through ball to Vinicius to send him clear, before the Brazil international passed right to Vazquez, who finished with ease.
It was soon game over as another Madrid attack saw Asensio lay the ball off to the in-form Valverde, who unleashed a fierce effort from just outside the box into the top-left corner of the net to seal all three points.
What does it mean? Madrid march on
It has been a sensational start to the season for Los Blancos, winning 10 and drawing one of their 11 LaLiga games.
This was far from a routine win as Sevilla looked good value for a point before Ancelotti’s subs made a big impact.
The champions look like they will take some stopping in their quest to win the title once again.
Vinicius shines again
In the absence of Benzema, Vinicius had a big impact on the game. He claimed two assists, laying the ball on a plate twice for team-mates to tap in.
Since the start of the last season, no LaLiga player has provided more assists than him in all competitions (21).
Another slow start costs Sevilla
Although it was a relatively late show that took a point away from them and handed Jorge Sampaoli his first loss since returning as head coach, it was yet another slow start from
Sevilla that put them on the back foot.
Modric’s fifth-minute strike was the third goal they have conceded in the first 15 minutes of league games, with only Getafe (five) and Girona (four) conceding more this season.
What’s next?
Both are back in Champions League action on Tuesday, with Real Madrid away to RB Leipzig, while Sevilla host Copenhagen.
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti believes Toni Kroos will extend his stay at the club beyond his current contract.
Kroos has been a core part of Los Blancos’ success in the past eight years, lifting the LaLiga title on three occasions and clinching victory in the Champions League four times – including last season.
Now 32, and with fellow midfielder Luka Modric also in his twilight years, Madrid have looked to the future with the signings of Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, but Kroos remains crucial for Ancelotti’s side.
The Germany international has started seven of Madrid’s 10 LaLigamatches this season and, while his current deal is set to expire at the end of the campaign, Ancelotti expects him to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“I’ve talked to him, he’s very calm. He’s going to think about it after the World Cup, in January or February. I think he’s going to continue,” he said in Friday’s press conference ahead of the clash against Sevilla.
“His level is better than last year, he had physical problems at the beginning and then he did very well. He’s at a very high level.”
Kroos is set to represent Germany at the World Cup in Qatar, which begins next month, where Ancelotti expects to see matches played with a higher level of intensity compared to the usual post-season tournament.
“I think this part of the season helps, you can see a World Cup with much more intensity, they will reach the top,” he added.
“In the previous ones they arrive exhausted to play the World Cup. Now they will arrive with a lot of energy.”
Carlo Ancelotticonsidered a “solid” defensive display cause for celebration as Real Madrid beat Getafe 1-0 to move above Barcelona at the LaLiga summit.
Los Blancos were far from their fluid best at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez, but Eder Militao’s third-minute header was enough to see them return to winning ways in the league after last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna.
It was the first time Madrid had kept a clean sheet in eight LaLiga games this season, so Ancelotti was pleased in that regard, hailing his central defenders.
He was less enthused by Madrid in an attacking sense as they failed to add to their early opener.
“We were very solid and both Militao and [Antonio] Rudiger played a great game,” he said. “We could have scored more goals, but at this point in the season that doesn’t matter.
“Scoring early did not force us to be in a hurry, and we did not force our plays that much. We created many opportunities, but we did not score enough.
“The team has played very well, and we are satisfied. Last season here we were beaten, and today the team has been more solid.
“I asked the players not to risk passing late on and to ensure their passing was accurate because the score was very tight.”
Madrid face Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday, before a mouth-watering Clasico clash against Barcelona next weekend.
Ancelotti rested Karim Benzema and Ferland Mendy for the short trip to Getafe, and the Italian head coach suggested he is likely to rotate his side for the midweek match in Warsaw against their opponents from Ukraine.
He is trying to avoid talking about the Barcelona game for now, but that fixture is taking on major significance given both teams have started strongly.
“I think the Clasico is still a long way off,” Ancelotti said. “I’ve rested Benzema and Mendy, and it may be that on Tuesday I can rotate a little more.”
Eden Hazard was an unused substitute against Getafe and has been limited to just 98 minutes of league action so far this season.
Ancelotti, however, said the former Chelsea winger will be called upon in the coming matches.
“Hazard is training well and will have his chance very soon,” the Madrid head coach added.
Carlo Ancelottiacknowledges Karim Benzema is “a bit tired” following his return from injury, but has refused to rule out using the striker when Real Madrid face Getafe on Saturday.
Benzema missed three weeks after sustaining a thigh injury in the Champions League win over Celtic last month, returning to Los Blancos’ side for last week’s 1-1 draw with Osasuna.
The France striker crashed a late penalty against the crossbar in that match as Madrid dropped points for the first time this season in LaLiga, and also failed to impress in Wednesday’s 2-1 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk.
Benzema failed to score despite recording eight shots totalling 0.93 expected goals (xG) in that contest, and Spanish media reports had suggested he was doubtful for the trip to Getafe.
However, Ancelotti insists Benzema has not been ruled out of Saturday’s game, saying: “Benzema has played two full games after being out for a month, he’s a bit tired.
“He’s not ruled out. If he’s fine tomorrow, he can play. I see the usual Karim, we don’t have to worry.
“It may be that he rests in Getafe, we’ll see, we don’t want to force anything.”
Ancelotti revealed only two players had asked him for a rest during his long coaching career, adding: “The players are not so honest when they are tired.
“I prefer that they tell me that they are loaded and avoid injuries, but it has only happened to me twice in 30 years: Pepe and [Clarence] Seedorf.”
If Benzema does feature on Saturday, he will look to extend a fine run of form on the road. The Ballon d’Or favourite has scored nine away goals in LaLiga in 2022, more than any other player, finding the net in six of his last nine away appearances.
Ancelotti offered a positive update on the fitness of Thibaut Courtois, who has missed Madrid’s last two games due to a hernia issue, confirming he should be available for next week’s Clasico meeting with Barcelona.
“Courtois is improving from his inflammation, it’s getting better,” he said. “We’ll see if he gets to Warsaw [to face Shakhtar on Tuesday], but he’ll be safe in the Clasico.”
Ancelotti was also asked about the future of midfielder Toni Kroos, who is yet to sign an extension to his Madrid contract, which expires next year.
The Italian coach is relaxed about the situation, though, adding: “Kroos never gets angry, he never feels the pressure. Sometimes I ask him if he’s nervous, and he always says no.
“The renewal is in his hands, if he wants to renew, Real Madrid will be very happy.”
Carlo Ancelotti believes Real Madrid “deserved” to beat Osasuna in Sunday’s draw, but called for a reaction from his players as he defended his decision to keep Eden Hazard benched.
The Belgium international was a spectator as Los Blancos slipped to a 1-1 draw against their visitors, with Karim Benzema fluffing a potential match-winning penalty to ensure the spoils were shared.
The club’s first dropped points of the domestic season saw them surrender top spot to rivals Barcelona, with the pair’s Clasico encounter – which takes place in just under a fortnight – set to represent a huge moment in the title race.
Speaking after Sunday’s stalemate, Ancelotti acknowledged his team’s frustrations after they dominated for long periods, but added that he anticipates a response.
“This team is upset when it doesn’t win,” he stated. “The game was under our control and we deserved to win.
“We’re not happy and that’s the reason why this side won a lot last year. We’re not happy with the draw and we will react soon.
“We shouldn’t be making excuses about the [international] break. We need to manage the break. We’ve got a very good squad.”
Mariano Diaz was preferred to Hazard when Ancelotti required attacking reinforcements in the second half, and the Italian was succinct in his reasoning for the Belgian’s absence.
“It was a game that needed a strong centre forward who was good in the air like Mariano, who had chances to score with his head,” he added. “It wasn’t the right match for Hazard’s qualities.”
Meanwhile, Thibaut Courtois missed the game through a case of sciatica, but Ancelotti is hopeful he could return as soon as the club’s midweek Champions League encounter with Shakhtar Donetsk.
“He’s got some tests and we’ll see if he can get back,” he stated. “It’s a muscular issue, I think it’s with the sciatic nerve. We’ll find out if he can play on Wednesday.”
A dominant Chelsea thrashed Everton 4-0 in the Premier League on Super Sunday, making it an unhappy return to Stamford Bridge for Carlo Ancelotti.
The Everton boss had never faced Chelsea before in his managerial career and returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time since his sacking from the club in 2011, but it got off to the worst start when Mason Mount produced a fine, swivelled finish in the 14th minute.
Chelsea continued to dominate throughout – with 18-year-old Premier League debutante Billy Gilmour impressing once again – and the hosts doubled their lead seven minutes later as Pedro (21) slotted home.
But the game was ultimately decided just after the break, when Willian (51) and Olivier Giroud (54) hit Everton with two quick goals, leaving Ancelotti and his assistant Duncan Ferguson stoney-faced on the touchline.
The result keeps Chelsea three points ahead of fifth-placed Manchester United – who beat Manchester City 2-0 later in the day – while Everton, who have now gone over four years without a Premier League goal at Stamford Bridge, remain in 12th.
Chelsea dominated the first half and went close early on, but Mount’s hooked effort was well stopped as Jordan Pickford leapt across to make the save. However, in the 14th minute, the Everton goalkeeper could not keep out Mount for a second time.
It was the Chelsea midfielder who started the move off too, feeding Pedro down the left before receiving the ball back in the middle. He swivelled as he controlled and struck, sending his effort hammering into the bottom corner and beating his England team-mate.
Despite recent criticism, Pickford had a mostly solid first half and the scoreline could have been extended much further without him. He was in action again when Willian burst into the area from the right flank but with no one in support, went for goal himself, only to see his effort pushed away by the Everton goalkeeper at the near post.
