The Clásico between Barcelona and Real Madrid left many memorable images, but one of the most symbolic occurred before the ball started rolling. Hansi Flick and Carlo Ancelotti had a brief but revealing exchange on the sidelines. Few words, much admiration, and a hint of irony.
The German coach deeply admires the Italian, and he approached Ancelotti to offer him some sincere words:
what flick said to ancelotti in his ear
"I admire you since your first stint at Real Madrid and also at Bayern. I hope you lose today, but I wish you the best. At Real Madrid or wherever," he said.
Flick, who doesn't hide his respect for the veteran Madrid coach, considers that Ancelotti and Guardiola have been the two most influential coaches in German soccer of the 21st century.
Ancelotti, with his characteristic elegance, did not remain silent and replied with an ironic smile:
"You'll be left wanting to see me lose." In the end, it was the Barcelona fan who got his way. But the good rapport between them was never lost.
The gesture, though brief, perfectly sums up the relationship between two coaches with very different careers but connected by a shared vision of the game. The mutual respect between Flick and Ancelotti was evident, even in a heated duel like the Clásico.
ancelotti is a reference for flick
From Barça's environment, they highlight that Flick models his management style on Ancelotti's calm and resolute approach, though with his own nuances. It is no coincidence that he considers him a reference since he saw him succeed at Real Madrid and in Munich.
Although this time the words were kind, both knew that what was at stake was much more than three points. Flick has come to restore Barça's glory, while Ancelotti is in the eye of the storm after a disappointing season with Madrid.
In elite soccer, even a simple whisper before the game can say more than 90 minutes of statements. Flick was not unaware that if Real Madrid did not come out victorious from Montjuïc, Ancelotti would have to pack his bags.