Real Madrid crowned in Wembley reach its 15th European trophy, a unbelievable success under Carlo Ancelotti and his son Davide magical touch
Real Madrid’s relationship with European football is one of grandeur and unparalleled success. As the most decorated club in the history of the UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid has consistently demonstrated a blend of tradition, excellence, and resilience that has seen them lift the prestigious trophy an astounding 15 times.
This remarkable achievement is not merely the result of collective effort on the field but also the strategic genius of managerial minds like Carlo Ancelotti and the support of his son, Davide Ancelotti.
The Historical Context: Real Madrid’s European Dominance
Real Madrid’s love affair with the European Cup dates back to its inception in 1955. Under the visionary presidency of Santiago Bernabéu, the club not only championed the creation of the tournament but also dominated its early years, winning the first five editions consecutively. Legendary figures like Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, and Francisco Gento laid the foundation of what would become a lasting legacy of European dominance.
Over the decades, Real Madrid’s ability to attract world-class talent and their relentless pursuit of excellence has kept them at the forefront of European football. Iconic players such as Raúl, Zidane, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sergio Ramos have all contributed to the club’s rich tapestry of success. However, their latest triumph, this 15th UEFA Champions League trophy, owes much to the tactical acumen and leadership of Carlo Ancelotti and the fresh perspectives brought by his son, Davide.
Carlo Ancelotti: The Mastermind
Carlo Ancelotti’s managerial career is nothing short of illustrious. Known for his calm demeanor, tactical flexibility, and ability to manage egos, Ancelotti has been a transformative figure at every club he has managed. His first stint at Real Madrid (2013-2015) saw him guide the team to their long-awaited “La Décima” – the club’s 10th European Cup – in 2014, ending a 12-year drought.
Ancelotti returned to Real Madrid in 2021, a move met with both nostalgia and high expectations. Ancelotti came back to Madrid after a good but not extraordinary experience in Everton. Somebody criticized Real Madrid choice, saying that a second time is always colder and less successful than the main one.
But under his guidance, Real Madrid reclaimed their European throne, showcasing a blend of tactical intelligence and the ability to adapt to different opponents. Ancelotti’s approach is rooted in pragmatism; he doesn’t impose a rigid system but rather adjusts his tactics to maximize the strengths of his squad.
Tactical Brilliance
Ancelotti’s tactical nous was evident throughout Real Madrid’s run to their 15th Champions League title. He employed a flexible 4-3-3 formation that could morph into a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, depending on the match situation and opposite teams tactical strength or weakness. This adaptability allowed Real Madrid to exploit their opponents lacks while solidifying their own defensive structures.
Key to this success was the resurgence of veterans like Luka Modrić and Karim Benzema, whose performances belied their years. Ancelotti’s man-management skills ensured that these experienced players were rested and rotated effectively, allowing them to peak at crucial moments. Additionally, his trust in younger talents like Vinícius Júnior and Federico Valverde paid dividends, as they provided the energy and dynamism that balanced the experience of the senior players.
Man-Management
Ancelotti’s ability to manage a squad of superstars is one of his defining traits. He fosters a positive dressing room atmosphere, where every player feels valued and understands their role. This was particularly important in a season where injuries and fixture congestion demanded effective squad rotation. Ancelotti’s open communication style and his calm, composed leadership kept the squad unified and focused on their collective goals.
Davide Ancelotti: The Emerging Strategist
While Carlo Ancelotti’s impact is well-documented, the role of his son, Davide Ancelotti, in Real Madrid’s recent success cannot be overlooked. Serving as the assistant manager, Davide has brought a modern touch to the team’s tactical setup, complementing his father’s experience with innovative ideas. Footages of Davide and Carlos speaking between bench and pitch became a constant trademark of this second extraordinary stint of the Italian trainer in Madrid.
Tactical Innovations
Davide Ancelotti is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his proficiency with data analysis. His input has been crucial in preparing the team for matches, analyzing opponents, and devising specific tactical plans. His focus on high-intensity pressing and transitions has added a new dimension to Real Madrid’s play, making them more unpredictable and difficult to counter.
Bridging Generations
As a younger coach, Davide has been able to bridge the generational gap within the squad. His understanding of contemporary football dynamics and his ability to relate to younger players have been instrumental in integrating emerging talents into the first team. Players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Eduardo Camavinga have all flourished under the Ancelotti regime, benefiting from the tailored guidance and support provided by both Carlo and Davide.
The Ancelotti Legacy
Carlo Ancelotti’s ability to win across different leagues (he’s the only one that reached the main title in the most Italy, England, Spain, France and Germany) and his unparalleled success in the Champions League make him one of the greatest managers in football history. Arguably the greatest. Period.
His triumph with Real Madrid in 2024 – Liga and Champions League, but also Spanish Supercopa – not only adds to his own illustrious career but also enhances the club’s legendary status. With this victories, Ancelotti became the first manager to win the Champions League five times (seven times considering his career as AC Milan’s player), a record that underscores his tactical genius and adaptability.
A Family Success
The father-son duo of Carlo (64) and Davide Ancelotti (34) is pretty unique in modern football. Their collaborative approach, blending experience with innovation, has been a perfect formula for success at Real Madrid. Davide’s growing influence and tactical acumen suggest that the Ancelotti legacy at Real Madrid could continue to thrive in the coming years.
Briefly…
Real Madrid’s 15th UEFA Champions League triumph is a testament to their enduring legacy and the masterful management of Carlo Ancelotti, supported by his son Davide. This victory highlights the perfect blend of experience, tactical flexibility, and the ability to nurture and integrate young talents. As the club looks to the future, the Ancelotti influence will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of their continued success in European football.
The celebration of this historic achievement is not just about adding another trophy to the cabinet but also about acknowledging the strategic brilliance and unity that has defined Real Madrid’s approach. With Carlo Ancelotti at the helm and Davide by his side, Real Madrid’s legacy as the greatest club in European history is set to continue, inspiring future generations and setting new benchmarks for success in the world of football.
