Real Madrid Confidencial Ancelotti Surprises, His Words After the Defeat Shock: 'We'll Try, but...'
The Italian coach hasn't resorted to the usual epic comeback message at Santiago Bernabéu and considers it difficult
Real Madrid fell decisively during their visit to Emirates Stadium. The 3-0 defeat against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 left the white team shaken.
However, what caught the most attention after the final whistle was not just the result, but the words of coach Carlo Ancelotti in the press conference.
The Italian coach, known for his calmness and balanced speech, surprised with some unusual statements in the competitive context of Madrid.
Doesn't Trust in the Comeback
"The chances of a comeback are slim, but we have to try. We're going to try in every way. It's an opportunity to try to react somehow", he stated to the media, with a more realistic tone than usual.
The coach's message contrasts with the usual spirit of comebacks that accompanies the white club in Europe. The defeat was harsh, not only because of the score but because of the image presented in London.
The team barely troubled Arsenal and was outplayed in all areas. Two direct free-kick goals by Declan Rice and one more by Mikel Merino sealed a gray night for the Chamartín team.
During his appearance, Ancelotti acknowledged that the team was not up to par. "We weren't good. We have to acknowledge it. We didn't find our game and they were superior. We struggled to keep the ball and create chances", he explained.
The coach did not want to assign individual blame, but he made it clear that the reaction in the second leg must be total if they want to have any chance.
Cold Shower
Some interpret Ancelotti's words as a strategy to reduce the pressure on his players before the match at Santiago Bernabéu.
Instead of fueling euphoria or selling a message of epic, the coach has opted for caution. A way, perhaps, to prepare for a dramatic turn if the team achieves what seems improbable today.
Despite his restrained tone, Ancelotti did not completely close the door on the comeback. "As long as there is a minimal chance, we have to go for it", he concluded.
The second leg will be on Wednesday in Madrid, and the club trusts in the Bernabéu factor to fuel hope. Although the challenge is enormous, no one rules out Real Madrid in Europe.
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