Ancelotti: Bernabéu's Boos Helped Real Madrid Improve
Carlo Ancelotti reflects on how fans' criticism at the Santiago Bernabéu served as a motivator, leading to stronger performances from Real Madrid.
Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, has openly credited the Santiago Bernabéu crowd's critical reactions with helping the team elevate their game. Following a 4-1 victory over Las Palmas, Ancelotti emphasized how the fans' vocal dissatisfaction served as a wake-up call for the players.
Speaking to reporters, Ancelotti said, "The whistles from the Bernabéu are not easy to hear, but they reflect the high expectations of our fans. Their discontent after certain matches pushed us to reassess and improve. The warning we received during the Copa del Rey was a turning point for the team."
Real Madrid's recent performances have come under scrutiny, especially following a 5-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. This result triggered vocal criticism from the fans during subsequent matches at the Bernabéu. According to Ancelotti, this pressure played a crucial role in refocusing the team’s efforts.
Analyzing the match against Las Palmas, Ancelotti noted, "We started poorly, but the team reacted well. [Kylian] Mbappé’s performance was exceptional, and overall, the players showed the determination we needed. Despite criticism, we remain at the top of the league, which speaks to the resilience of this group."
He continued, "Football is a game of ups and downs. I’ve heard criticisms about us playing poorly, yet here we are, leading the league. The key is maintaining balance—acknowledging when we fall short and working to sustain our positive moments."
Ancelotti’s comments highlight the unique relationship between Real Madrid’s players and their passionate fanbase. The coach views the fans' high standards not as a hindrance but as a driving force that compels the team to consistently aim for excellence.
As Real Madrid continues its campaign in La Liga and other competitions, the team's ability to channel constructive criticism into improved performances will be critical to their success.