Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, recently reaffirmed the importance of the UEFA Champions League for the club. With a record 14 Champions League titles to their name, Real Madrid has a historic connection with this prestigious competition. Ancelotti himself made history in 2022 by becoming the most successful head coach in the Champions League when he secured his fourth title with Real Madrid in a thrilling final against Liverpool.
Although Manchester City knocked them out in the semi-finals last season and went on to claim the crown, Ancelotti expressed his team's high motivation to compete in this year's tournament. He stated, 'The motivation to go all the way is always high because I like what I do and where I do it. I like the squad and the players I have. And now the competition that this club likes the most is back.'
Real Madrid will commence their campaign in the 2023/2024 Champions League season with a last 16 clash against RB Leipzig. Ancelotti acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, describing Leipzig as a tough and strong rival. However, with Real Madrid currently leading La Liga by five points and comfortably progressing through their Champions League group, there is optimism surrounding the team's abilities.
When asked if this season was his best yet as the head coach of Real Madrid, Ancelotti remained indecisive but acknowledged it as the strongest in terms of continuous success. He expressed his satisfaction with the solid and motivated team he has built, despite the numerous injuries that have plagued the squad. Ancelotti's refusal to let injuries hinder the team's performance reflects his belief in overcoming obstacles and maintaining a positive mindset.
Additionally, Ancelotti is successfully overseeing a generational transition within the squad. As seasoned veterans like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos gradually step back, young talents like Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham are emerging and making their mark. Ancelotti attributes this smooth transition to the lack of ego among the more experienced players, which has allowed the youngsters to adapt seamlessly to the team and the club.
Interestingly, although Modric's playing time has decreased compared to Kroos, Ancelotti praises the impact of the German midfielder in what many consider to be his strongest season in his ten-year tenure at Real Madrid. Ancelotti notes Kroos' ability to harness the energy of the younger players and emphasizes that his passing accuracy has remained consistently stellar over the years.
With Ancelotti at the helm and a motivated squad, Real Madrid strives to add another Champions League trophy to their formidable collection. As the competition resumes, fans eagerly await the exhilarating matches and memorable moments that define the UEFA Champions League.
