Carlo Ancelotti faces Real Madrid's toughest test as he stands by his choice to stay

Carlo Ancelotti is a man of strong-willed decisions, and it seems in this case that he does not intend to budge on Real Madrid. When he received news that he could take the reins of the Brazilian National Team, the greatest one in world soccer, many were awaiting what would be the new objective of the Italian strategist. Nevertheless, he stayed in the Spanish capital faithful to Real Madrid. And now, at the most delicate moment for the club, he gives a boost to that decision. During a news conference, Ancelotti made clear that even with the adverse situation, he has no regrets for having stayed on and is focused on overcoming this phase.

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Real Madrid in Crisis? Ancelotti Downplays the Moment

In the news conference, Ancelotti was emphatic: "I don't regret anything and continue enjoying each day in Valdebebas. Difficult times have always happened and always will." In other words, he viewed challenges as part of the game-something he'd previously faced and would face again. After two heavy losses, one against Barcelona and the other against Milan, Real Madrid is undeniably in bad shape. Yet for Ancelotti, this should not be a license to fall into despair.

About ups and downs, he was even clearer: "For a long time, we've gotten used to winning. but now this moment has arrived." That means he recognizes that constant success creates a comfort zone, but at the same time, he makes it stronger that losses do happen and they will get up from that loss. He seems to want to take weight off the situation-almost as an omen, a warning to the squad and the fans that will have to face reality.

Defensive Problems: Ancelotti Identifies Source of Losses

About the recent performances, Ancelotti was straightforward: "Our problem isn't offensive, nor positioning. It's something defensive." He really believes that what happened in those losses had its origin in the defense. During two games, Real conceded seven goals, an unusual statistic for the team used to having a strong defense. That defensive defect didn't pass the coach, who sees that area as the one which needs change for now.

Ancelotti didn't blame his forwards. Conversely, he thinks the problem is collective and demands a much firmer position in defence.

In a more philosophical tone, Ancelotti weighed in on the need for more than words to be said: "The players are thinking that we can achieve this. But after words, we must act. I can talk, but what needs to be done is to turn the situation around. Today, these are just words, but they are carried away by the wind."

Mbappé and the Challenge of Individual Motivation

No analysis would be complete without Kylian Mbappé. Asked about the performance of the French star, Ancelotti was clear and at the same time careful: "He trains well, lives in a difficult moment. just like us all. But I'm sure he will get through it." This means that Mbappé is in the midst of an important phase, just like other key men in this team like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Bellingham, but there's a way out.

The coach speaks about the need for "focus and attitude" to go beyond this stage, as if talent were not enough. This reflection on Mbappé also goes to the entire squad. For Ancelotti, the key is to consider this stage "an opportunity" toward growth, but it requires commitment and standing firm. It is almost a philosophical way of perceiving that soccer is also in the head.