In the world of soccer, there are no friends, only rivals. Or so we thought. Because what Hansi Flick, victorious coach of FC Barcelona, has done has left everyone speechless.
The German coach, just hours before facing Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final, has sent a message of support to Carlo Ancelotti. He has done so at his most challenging moment as Real Madrid's coach.
Hansi Flick's Gesture with Carlo Ancelotti
The gesture has been covered by several German media outlets and has caused astonishment in the Madrid environment. Flick was once in Florentino Pérez's sights. He hasn't hesitated to send a message of respect and encouragement to Ancelotti.
He has done so right now when Carletto is playing for everything in three weeks: La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League.
"A defeat doesn't tarnish your brilliant career. Your work and quality are above the results," he told the Italian coach in a call that surprised Carletto a lot.
Then he publicly added: "What Ancelotti is doing is admirable. I wish him the best in this beautiful moment he is going through," Flick said in an interview for German media.
He added: "Real Madrid has one of the best coaches in the world. He won everything at every club. He's a gentleman, I have great respect for him."
He also praised the Italian coach's management of the locker room. Words that were not expected, especially coming from his great rival on the benches in Spain.
An Elegant Gesture That Smells Like Cold War
From Real Madrid's environment, there have been divided reactions. Some interpret it as a simple gesture of sportsmanship, while others see a subtle attempt to gain sympathies in Spanish soccer.
Flick, who wants to lead a new winning cycle at Barça, positions himself as a tough and strong coach. With this type of message, he shows that he knows how to play off the field as well. Ancelotti hasn't replied publicly, but it's said he received the message with a smile.
An elegant gesture... that smells like a cold war ahead of time.