Real life — or a really rough season — hit, and coach Carlo Ancelotti bless-ed it by saying no thanks. He is now preparing to meet a renewed challenge with Brazil. The season saw Real Madrid suffer a clean sweep against their arch-rivals Barcelona, losing all four encounters across various competitions. Barcelona’s impressive performance included scoring 97 goals in 36 league matches, significantly outpacing Real Madrid, who scored 23 fewer goals.
Ancelotti’s final campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu has been overshadowed by injuries and an inability to remain competitive in LaLiga. Most importantly, the team has seen its last days in the Champions League this year. Currently, they’re aiming their efforts onto the Club World Cup – their final attempt to take silverware this year. Barcelona secured the LaLiga title and triumphed over Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
Ancelotti’s Reflections on Injuries and Team Performance
Speaking after the match, Ancelotti criticized the effect of their injury crisis on his side. He pointed out that foundational players have been unable to give ample time, which has held back Real Madrid from really competing on all fronts.
“There have been too many injuries and very important players… throughout this season, these kinds of injuries have hurt us.” – Carlo Ancelotti
He was aware of the obstacles, but he truly relished his interactions with the players. Yet even at their most dismayed, you could sense their remarkable fortitude, energy and optimism. Ancelotti made clear that he would never go in on his group, after all they’ve done for him down the years.
“This team has been able to believe even when no one believed (in us). I will never criticise these players who have been able to give me so much joy over the years.” – Carlo Ancelotti
Ancelotti further acknowledged Barcelona’s greater consistency over the course of the season, commending their attractive style of play.
“This is part of football, sometimes you’re not able to get the best out of everyone. Barcelona have done very well, because they’ve been more consistent in the league and played very beautiful football.” – Carlo Ancelotti
A Season of Missed Opportunities
Reflecting on the 2023 season, Ancelotti commented on the fierce competition. He wanted LaLiga to be the opposite of that. He looked back on his quest and determination to compete for the title up until his final hour. Sadly, that dream never materialized.
“I wanted to enjoy it in a different way, fighting until the last day for the league. Which hasn’t been (the case), but I’m (still) enjoying it. And then, (I have) to prepare for another challenge.” – Carlo Ancelotti
He transformed his gritty disappointment with their performance into hopefulness at their potential. He probably had hoped for a more successful season with major trophies, it wasn’t to be. The truth is very clear: with just one tournament left to main on, Real Madrid’s future hangs in the balance.
Looking Forward
As Ancelotti gets ready to leave Real Madrid for good, he is right to feel confident about the future of the club. He’s confident next season will bring new opportunities and challenges.
“I congratulate them. They deserved to win this league. Next year will be a different story.” – Carlo Ancelotti
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