Ancelotti Reflects on Football Evolution and the Keys to Successful Management

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti recently spoke about the evolution of football and shared insights into successful management during a talk at Real Madrid’s European University. Ancelotti, who is often noted for his pleasant demeanor, humor in press conferences, and exceptional managerial record, emphasized the changes in football over the years.

He acknowledged the shifts in intensity, rules, training methods, and overall methodology in the sport, emphasizing that the football played today is significantly different from that of the 90s. Ancelotti, the only manager to win league titles in all five major European leagues and a four-time UEFA Champions League winner, highlighted the increasing professionalism of players and the transformative impact of technology on the sport.

When asked about the role of a manager, Ancelotti outlined the key elements for success. He mentioned the importance of intelligent players and a supportive club. Ancelotti expressed a preference for convincing people rather than imposing decisions.

Despite the challenges and changes in football, Ancelotti emphasized his adaptability, stating that after 30 years, he is still at the top of the game. He acknowledged the role of technology as both a challenge and an aid to his coaching work, noting that while his coaching staff may consider him “old school,” he embraces technology to enhance his coaching methods.

Ancelotti’s ability to guide Real Madrid to a Champions League victory with a squad considered past its prime reflects his managerial prowess, and his success is attributed to maintaining support in the dressing room. The recent signing of Jude Bellingham is seen as a significant addition to the squad, but Ancelotti faces the challenge of managing one of the team’s weaker squads in the past two decades.