Coach Carlo Ancelotti: 'Real Madrid is home, family and everything to me'

The moment Carlo Ancelotti stepped through the gates of Valdebebas on Thursday morning was not merely a technical visit by a national team coach. For the 65-year-old, it was a literal homecoming — a place where he spent 5 years, a place he has called 'family' for 14 years since he first set foot at the Bernabeu. Ancelotti is currently leading the Brazil national team with a goal of World Cup 2026, but his heart still belongs to Real Madrid. In a post-visit interview, the Italian tactician did not hide his emotions: 'Real Madrid is home, family and everything to me. I am no longer their coach, but I am still one of the club's most passionate supporters.' The main purpose of Ancelotti's visit to Valdebebas was to check the fitness of Brazilian players at Real Madrid: Endrick, Vinicius Junior, Eder Militao and Rodrygo Goes. These are key pieces in his plan towards the 2026 World Cup. The reunion was described as 'special' and a 'productive morning of work', as shared by the players themselves on social media. What is noteworthy is how Ancelotti has transformed his role. When he led Real Madrid in 2026-2026 and 2026-2026, he won 2 Champions League titles, 2 La Liga titles and countless other trophies. Now, as head coach of Brazil, he maintains a close connection with the Spanish royal club — not only professionally but also on a deep emotional level. This attachment creates a visible bridge between the club ecosystem and the national team. In modern football, where international and club schedules often conflict, the personal relationship between a national team coach and key players at a major club can create significant tactical advantages. However, one must remain sober: Ancelotti's emotions are understandable, but football fans should not place excessive expectations on this relationship directly influencing match outcomes. Top-level football is decided by hundreds of on-pitch factors, not by warm embraces in hallways. What is even more interesting is how Ancelotti positions himself. He is no longer 'Real Madrid coach' or 'former Real Madrid coach' — he calls himself a 'Real Madrid fan'. This transformation reflects a reality: even the world's top tacticians cannot separate personal emotions from their careers. Beneath the cold tactical veneer, Ancelotti remains a man of relationships. The morning at Valdebebas ended with a group photo posted on social media. Four Brazilian players surrounded the 65-year-old coach, all smiling. For Ancelotti, it was not just a fitness check — it was a moment to reunite with his spiritual sons, those who wrote glorious history with him at Real Madrid. The question for the future: Will this special relationship help Brazil benefit from Real Madrid players receiving special care? Or conversely, will it create invisible pressure on Ancelotti to balance loyalty to his former club and responsibility to the national team? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: Ancelotti's heart will always have a place reserved for Real Madrid.