Carlo Ancelotti's farewell from Real Madrid marked a turning point in the club's recent history. His name will be forever engraved at Bernabéu, a stadium that paid him an emotional and well-deserved tribute. However, after four years full of successes and unique moments, the relationship between the Italian coach and the club came to an end.
In a deep interview with MARCA newspaper, Ancelotti revealed the reasons that led to this end of an era. Contrary to what many expected, his departure wasn't abrupt or the result of a whim, but a consensual decision after analyzing the situation.
Arsenal, the turning point
Carlo Ancelotti was clear when talking about the key moment that sealed his goodbye. "The results haven't been the desired ones, the team's play wasn't good either, it was time to do something," he acknowledged. That moment came after the knockout against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League.
The Italian coach explained that after that defeat, he and the club understood that the best thing was to step aside. "After the knockout against Arsenal we talked about it and decided it. The team wasn't doing well and we all saw that the best thing was for Real Madrid to look and for me to look to Brazil," he confessed.
With the future decided, Carlo Ancelotti faced the Copa final and El Clásico with professionalism, but still trusted he could change the course. "I always had the confidence to overcome the bad moments. You always try," he added.
The value of family and mutual respect
The coach emphasized the importance of unity within the locker room. "In today's soccer, being a family, going hand in hand, is increasingly important. Real Madrid has been an example of that," he said.
That philosophy, however, wasn't enough to turn around the sporting crisis the team was going through. What he does highlight is that the farewell took place in an atmosphere of mutual respect and affection.
The emotional ceremony at Bernabéu brought together fans, players, and directors, showing Carlo Ancelotti's strong bond with the club. "It's been four wonderful years, I felt everyone's affection and respect at all times, what happened on Saturday at Bernabéu can't be forgotten," he stated.
He also highlighted Florentino Pérez's warmth at the farewell, a gesture that speaks of the affection and good relationship that are kept despite the professional separation.