Enter Carlo Ancelotti press conference in the preview of the match against Milan this Tuesday (9pm) at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. It will be the first match after the defeat against Barcelona and after interrupting the trip to Paris when it became known that Vinicius would not win the Ballon d’Or. The subsequent suspension of the match at the Mestalla against Valencia due to the tragedy that took place in the Levantine city due to the effects of dana meant that this was the first match for the Bianconeri after difficult days for the locker room and for the club.
Message to Valencia
But the Italian dedicated his first speech to what happened in Valencia: “A week has passed since this tragedy. We are sad. This is the emotion we feel. We are very close to the municipalities of Valencia and I hope that this situation can be resolved.” Soon. I want you to understand that talking about football right now is a bit complicated. Play too. We are part of this country and all this has a huge impact. Out of respect for you and not to disrespect those who suffer, we will hold a simple press conference. I don’t want to talk about football. For me it’s a really special match, but out of respect I will speak as little as possible.”
“We don’t have our minds in football. You listen, you see, you read what’s happening and it’s terrible. We will try to play and win because that’s what we have to do. The whole football world was clear, nobody wanted to play, but not us. We are the ones who lead and we must respect the decisions of those in charge”, he continued with tears in his eyes at a certain point of the speech. “Football had to stop this weekend and therefore it can and must help. Football is a holiday you can celebrate when your family is well and everyone is well. When people aren’t well, you can’t party. Football is the most important of the least important things in life. But we are dependent and do not decide,” he noted.
The Italian did not want to comment on the political leaders’ management of the Valencia tragedy: “I don’t have to pass judgment on the management of what happened. Obviously those who experienced it are frustrated and it’s logical because what happened was incredible. Not I’m here to give my opinion or evaluate what politics has done this week, I have no resources, I only have the sadness of hearing that it is difficult to think that this could happen in 2024. I have never seen such an incredible catastrophe people are helping a lot and this is what citizens must do. Yesterday’s frustration (during the visit of the King, the President of the Government and the President of the Generalitat Valenciana) is the frustration of those who have lost everything. And it’s an understandable frustration.” concluded on what happened in Valencia.
Carletto also wanted to downplay the episode of the interrupted trip to the Ballon d’Or: “It was a difficult week because there wasn’t a normal climate. But it wasn’t because of what happened at the Ballon d’Or. it was because of what happened in Spain this week. Vinicius is sad like all of us about what happened in Valencia. He too is aware of it. “He trained like the others.”
Numerous players from the reserve team participated in the training such as Guille Súnico, Fran González, Mestre, Loren Aguado and Chema Andrés. Three of them goalkeepers, to cover the loss of Courtoisa right back and a midfielder. For this match against Milan Ancelotti will have the Belgian goalkeeper out, Alaba and of Carvajal, who They continue the process of recovering from long-term injuries.
Time.news Interview: An Insightful Conversation with Football Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today we have the pleasure of speaking with football expert Dr. Lucia Mancini, who will help us unpack the recent remarks made by Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the crucial match between Real Madrid and Milan. Thanks for joining us, Dr. Mancini!
Dr. Mancini: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Ancelotti’s press conference had a particularly somber tone, especially following the tragedy in Valencia. How significant is the emotional state of a team and its coach when faced with such events?
Dr. Mancini: It’s extremely significant. Football is not just a game; it involves deep emotional connections for players, coaches, and fans alike. When tragedy strikes, like what happened in Valencia, it transcends the sport. Ancelotti’s acknowledgment of these feelings demonstrates the human side of football. It shows that while they are professional athletes, they are also part of the community that is affected by these events.
Editor: Ancelotti emphasized that “football is the most important of the least important things in life.” How do you interpret this statement in terms of prioritizing community and emotional well-being over the game itself?
Dr. Mancini: That phrase captures a critical mindset. Football can bring joy and unity during good times, but when calamities occur, it’s crucial to recognize the gravity of the situation. Ancelotti is reminding us that there are moments when sport must take a back seat to human suffering. His remarks emphasize the importance of empathy and solidarity, reinforcing that the team and the larger community are interconnected.
Editor: He also mentioned that “we don’t have our minds in football.” What impact do you think such distractions have on a player’s performance?
Dr. Mancini: Distractions can severely impact performance. When players are emotionally unsettled, it can affect their focus, decision-making, and ultimately their performance on the field. Ancelotti’s honest reflection suggests that the mental and emotional state of the team is currently challenged, which could affect how they approach the match against Milan. Teams that can manage those distractions often have a psychological edge in crucial situations.
Editor: Given that this is the team’s first match following these heavy events, what might be the psychological strategies that Ancelotti and his coaching staff employ to help the players?
Dr. Mancini: Ancelotti and his staff might focus on a few key strategies. Firstly, they could facilitate open conversations where players can express their feelings. Secondly, they might structure the training sessions to emphasize teamwork and solidarity, reinforcing the bond among players. Lastly, it would be crucial for the staff to remind them of their purpose on the pitch – to play for each other and for the community that supports them, which could serve as a strong motivational factor.
Editor: Ancelotti’s emotional response during the press conference was notable. How important is it for a leader in sports to show vulnerability?
Dr. Mancini: Vulnerability in leadership, especially in sports, can be incredibly powerful. It fosters authenticity and can strengthen the bond between a coach and players. When leaders like Ancelotti show that they are affected by external events, it cultivates trust and openness within the team. It humanizes the coach, making players feel understood and supported, which can encourage a greater sense of unity amid adversity.
Editor: Before we conclude, what do you believe is the most crucial takeaway from Ancelotti’s press conference that fans should remember?
Dr. Mancini: The most important takeaway is that while sports can provide relief and joy, it is essential to maintain perspective, especially during tough times. Ancelotti is asking fans and players to remember their shared humanity and to reflect on what truly matters. football is a celebration, but when the community suffers, that celebration must be approached with care and sensitivity.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mancini, for your insights on this deeply reflective moment in football. It serves as a reminder of the larger role sports play in our lives beyond just competition.
Dr. Mancini: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss it! It’s a poignant reminder that football, at its essence, is community and connection.
Editor: And that’s a wrap for our interview. Thank you to our readers for tuning in, and stay tuned for more insights from the world of sports at Time.news!