Ancelotti Reflects After Jeddah Supercopa Loss

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s experienced manager, has candidly addressed his team’s performance following a crushing 5-2 loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final in Jeddah. The defeat has sparked serious introspection within the squad, as the team prepares for pivotal matches in the season’s second half.

The loss marked a significant low point, with defensive lapses and a lack of urgency being key factors. On the return flight from Saudi Arabia, Ancelotti refrained from immediate criticism, opting to give his players space to process the defeat. However, during a subsequent meeting at Valdebebas, he held an honest and thorough review of the game, emphasizing the need for collective improvement. The coach avoided singling out individuals, instead calling for accountability across the squad.

Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić reportedly lightened the mood by saying, "If we must lose a cup, let it be this one," a sentiment echoed by club president Florentino Pérez, who consoled the team by reminding them that setbacks are part of football. Despite the disappointment, the team has resolved to use the loss as motivation to reignite their season’s ambitions.

Ancelotti highlighted the team’s inability to recover after conceding critical goals, particularly following the controversial red card shown to goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny. This lack of resilience, uncharacteristic for a club of Real Madrid’s stature, has become a recurring issue in high-pressure games.

To address these challenges, team leaders, including captains, have initiated internal discussions to ensure a renewed focus on discipline, preparation, and execution. The upcoming Copa del Rey fixture against Celta Vigo is viewed as an opportunity to regain momentum. Additionally, with major competitions like La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, the team is determined to reaffirm their status as one of Europe’s elite.

Real Madrid’s ability to bounce back from adversity has been a hallmark of their history, and Ancelotti’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the team through this critical phase. With the support of the coaching staff and the determination of the players, the club aims to rise above this setback and continue their pursuit of glory.