Ancelotti talks Mbappe, Endrick, Garcia, Navas after Real Madrid 4-2 Sevilla | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has reflected on the challenges his team has faced this season and expressed immense appreciation for the unwavering support from his players and the club.

Despite the ups and downs, Ancelotti never felt his position was under threat. He credited the supportive environment at Real Madrid for giving him the calm and confidence needed to navigate tough times.

Jesus Navas’ farewell

Discussing the farewell of Jesus Navas, during last night’s game against Sevilla, Ancelotti acknowledged the emotional moment.

Navas, a true icon in football, has set an exceptional example with his professionalism, dedication, and strong commitment. Ancelotti noted that young players aspiring to reach the top level should look up to such figures as a source of inspiration.

“It was exciting. He is a football legend who represents a perfect example for the players: seriousness, professionalism, attitude and commitment. If young people want to be top-level footballers, they must follow their example,” he said.

Real Madrid’s rock bottom

Carlo Ancelotti says Real Madrid hit rock bottom against AC Milan. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Reflecting on difficult moments this season, Ancelotti identified the defeat against Milan as the turning point for the team.

It was during this low point that the players regrouped and addressed their issues head-on in the dressing room. This honest and open dialogue among the squad proved to be a decisive moment in realigning their focus and reigniting their collective effort.

“After the defeat against Milan. There we arranged things inside the dressing room, speaking very clearly. We were all on the same page about the problem. And we are back,” he explained.

Mbappe’s comment

Kylian Mbappe scored a stunner against Sevilla. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Kylian Mbappe, too, has been a key figure in Real Madrid’s resurgence. His self-critical approach allowed him to overcome his struggles and return to form, demonstrating his immense quality on the field.

Ancelotti shared his belief that Mbappe has fully adapted to the team’s system and is now playing at his best.

“He has been self-critical and, thanks to this attitude, he has been able to overcome a complicated situation. He is already showing all his qualities.

“Yesterday I said “his adaptation period is over” and today he has shown that I, from time to time, am right.”

Grading Real Madrid’s year

Carlo Ancelotti is happy with the performances. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

As the year concludes, Ancelotti evaluated the team’s overall performance for 2024 as exceptional. While the season began with some difficulties, the players’ commitment and hard work ensured they stayed on course.

“Outstanding. Because we have done very well many times. Dominating in every aspect.

“Last season was fantastic and this one, despite the fact that we started with a little more difficulties, thanks to the attitude of the players we have been able to fix it in time,” he noted.

The team aims to carry this momentum into 2025, fully aware of the challenges ahead but confident in the squad’s high level of quality.

“We face 2025 with enthusiasm, although we know that repeating a year like this… It’s very complicated. We will try because the quality of the squad is very high.”

Explaining the substitutions

Carlo Ancelotti has explained the substitutions. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Regarding Fran Garcia and Endrick, Ancelotti addressed their missed substitutions during a recent game.

He explained that it was a strategic decision to maintain the team’s dominance after securing the fourth goal.

“No, I didn’t have time to explain it to them, but I think they understood. I didn’t want to open a game that was over with the fourth goal.”

Both players will have plenty of opportunities to shine in the upcoming year. With optimism for the future, Ancelotti extended warm Christmas wishes to everyone, including the press, acknowledging their shared journey through the season.

“They will have time in 2025 to take their chances. Well, Fran has helped us a lot in these last weeks. (Silence) Having said that, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas. We made it alive… All of us! (laughs),” he concluded.

Source: AS