Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti reveals why he signed a new contract with the LaLiga giants

Carlo Ancelotti has enjoyed two successful spells as Real Madrid manager, winning one LaLiga title and two Champions Leagues among other trophies in five full seasons. The Italian’s second stint, which began in 2021, will now run through to 2026 after he agreed a contract extension with president Florentino Pérez, much to the disappointment of the Brazilian Soccer Confederation, who had hoped to entice him to take charge of their national team.

After his new deal was confirmed, Ancelotti spoke about his delight at staying on at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu for two extra years to the Real Madrid media team.

What did Ancelotti say about signing a new Real Madrid contract?

How are you feeling after extending your contract?

Happy. I am very happy to be able to keep dreaming about the future with this club, with these fans and these players. It’s a day that I’ll have to mark on the calendar because it’s a happy day.

Why did you decide to sign a new deal?

The team has had success in recent years and is having success this year as well. The club sees that there is a good connection between us and that’s very important, because without a good relationship between the coach and the players, the club can’t be successful. Obviously, I thank the club for the extension, but also the players, who are showing an extraordinary attitude.

What does Real Madrid mean to you?

Above all, it’s a family. There’s a real family feeling at the club, which starts with the president. We all bring out the best in one another because we work in a family environment.

Florentino Pérez is Madrid’s “number one fan”

What do you think of Florentino Pérez?

I consider him to be a family man and a man who has achieved what no one else has been able to achieve in soccer. He is still incredibly motivated because he is the club’s number one fan. He has been since he was little and that allows him to have a special kind of love for the club. He keeps the club at the top. What he has done in the last 20 years has been very important for Real Madrid, just like Santiago Bernabéu in the 1950s.

Bright future for current Madrid team

What future does the team have?

A very bright one. The past has already been written, now we are writing the present. Above all, it has a big future with a very young squad and very talented players. The future of this club is going to be successful, just as the past was and the present is. With the generation of new players that are coming through, Madrid’s future is going to be very successful.

Ancelotti’s most memorable moments with Los Blancos

What are your most memorable moments at the club?

There are many. Bale’s goal in Valencia in the (2014) Copa del Rey final, Ramos’ goal in 2014 (the Champions League final) or the moments that led us to Madrid’s 14th European title: the semi-final (against Manchester City) or the comeback against PSG. I don’t forget anything. The victories in LaLiga, the UEFA Super Cup or the Copa del Rey last season. Every trophy is important and cannot be forgotten.

How have you changed from your first spell in charge?

I don’t think I have changed as a person or my way of coaching. I might have a little more knowledge because I have more experience.