Real Madrid -head coach Carlo Ancelotti has officially confirmed that he will take over the Brazilian national team after the past season. During the current press conference before the match prior to the La Liga collision with Mallorca, he expressed his deep affection for the club and responded to media investigations.
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What kind of match do you expect?
The last few games are always intense. We miss several important players, but we will try to use a competitive team and win all three remaining games. La Liga is not over yet. We don't want to hand over the title – we want to finish the season strongly after a difficult year.
How do you feel now?
From 26 May I will be the head coach of Brazil – a huge challenge. But for now I am still the Real Madrid coach, and I want to finish this chapter well and put a suitable end to this wonderful adventure. I know everyone curious about my future, but at the moment my focus is on my remaining days here. Out of respect for the club and the fans, I am widely widened to this last piece.
Why do the announcement now?
Because the Brazilian football confederation has released a statement. From the 26th of this month I will be the head coach of Brazil.
Real Madrid has not made an official announcement. Are you surprised?
Real Madrid can release a statement whenever they want – that's no problem. I don't know when they will make it official. The club will speak if they feel that the time is right. I have nothing to add.
When did you find out that you would not stay?
That is a personal issue, something discussed between me and the club.
Why do you think you can no longer stay for another season?
Just like life, football is made of chapters that start and end. I always knew that this would end in one day. A good period comes to an end. I enjoyed it, but all things in life end up in the end – even life itself – so how can a football spell be different? I had a great time and I want to end it with dignity. On the 26th I will talk about the new challenge. I have never had any problems with the club and will never do that. This club is in my heart, and even if this trip ends, it stays there. The farewell is in the neighborhood – we have won many titles in these years and I will never forget this incredible ride.
Why was the Brazilian FA in such a hurry to make it official?
Everyone does things in their own way.
What do you think of the end of this “honeymoon” period? Are you disappointed?
Not at all. If someone had told me on the day I arrived that I would win 11 trophies in the next four years, I would have registered without hesitation. This season had his challenges, but it was an unforgettable time.
Do you have advice for Xabi Alonso?
I really like it. I don't have to give him advice – he already has everything that is needed to become a great coach in the future.
What will the last two weeks be like?
I know exactly what I can expect – prepared for the next games. On the 26th I will have a new job. I will then think about it.
When did you start to doubt your continuation in the club?
You just have to look at the facts – I will coach until the 25th. I realized that yesterday.
A few years ago, Florentino Pérez said he spoiled the players. Do you think you did the same?
Do you mean I didn't fold them in shape? No, I don't think I spoiled them.
Some regret?
No. I want to enjoy the last 15 days. I did everything I could do – our trophies prove that.
You have signed with five -time world champions Brazil, but you don't seem very happy.
No, I am very happy. But during a press conference I have to explain things that I would rather not have – because I still work for Real Madrid until the 25th. Out of respect for this shirt, I want to keep that respect until the end. I want to win La Liga and the Champions League. But yes – I am very happy.
Do you think it's the right time to leave?
I have never had the feeling that Real Madrid didn't want me. Even after I joined Brazil the 25th, Real Madrid will still love me. The club has always treated me with affection. Of course I can't be Madrid coach forever. Maybe the club needs a new spark. I don't see this as a tragedy. I am deeply grateful. Our story continues – I will always be a Madridista. This chapter ends, but it was great. I never thought I would coach Madrid for six years – but it happened.
What's going on with Rodrygo?
Rodrygo recently had a fever, so he didn't have been at his best. Today he felt discomfort during training – I'm not sure which leg. He still recovers from disease, which has caused a lot of speculation. People care about him – especially me.
Actual thoughts?
Everything is possible. It's just time for a change, that's all. I see this as normal. The end of things was now a joint decision.
How does Rodrygo feel emotional?
If players don't feel good physically, they are not in the best spirits. He wants to help the team – completely understandable.
How do you think fans see you?
We have shared so many unforgettable comebacks – I believe that the fans will not forget those moments.
Some fans are unhappy that you have negotiated with Brazil while still coaching Real Madrid.
I respect everyone's opinion. That is part of football – just like press conferences. Sometimes you have to deal with things that you would rather avoid. But no, I'm not upset.