Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks, and despite Los Blancos returning within two points of Barcelona with a game ahead, he is still surrounded by doubt over the future. There was even talk that he could be replaced before the end of the season if results did not improve.
Los Blancos play Atalanta on Tuesday evening and are currently 24th in the Champions League. Anything other than a win against the Serie A leaders will see them exit the play-off places with just two games to go. Ancelotti was asked if he felt there was more at stake.
“No, nothing more. There will be three key points to qualify. It will be difficult to finish in the top eight, so unfortunately we will have to play in the round of 32. But tomorrow it will only be three points.”
It was noted that Ancelotti was remarkably calm given the situation, although that is one of his most consistent traits.
“I completely trust my team and my players. We have improved and now we have some momentum. Tomorrow could be the most complicated match between now and the end of the year.”
When asked how he has lasted so long at the highest level of European football, and how managers in general weather difficult periods, Ancelotti had a sharper message.
“The coach perseveres if the club perseveres; If that's not the case (laughs), the coach can't keep it up. It's that simple. There is no other recipe. The club-coach relationship is very important for success. The basis must be trust. If you are successful, it is because this relationship has been very good,” Ancelotti noted in a more serious tone.
After those doubts and countless reports in the local press about what he did wrong, there are also whispers that Ancelotti is disappointed with the club and their lack of confidence in recent weeks. That is supported by his press conference last Friday, when he noted that he was hurt by some of the more 'personal' criticism and not just the tactical attacks on him.
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