Ancelotti: Valverde is an Amazing Player, and Vinicius Did Not Fall Short in Important Matches
Monday 16-03-2026
The Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, the current manager of the Brazilian national team, gave an interview to Radio Marca, where he talked about the Brazilian national team and Real Madrid. He touched on several topics, most notably his departure from the royal club, the call-up of players for the World Cup, and the performance of the team's top stars.

Ancelotti said about his departure from Real Madrid: "I didn't have in mind to move to another club after Real Madrid. I had the opportunity to lead the Brazilian national team two years ago, and then I renewed with Real Madrid. But last year, we saw that the time was right to leave, and now I am happy with that."

Regarding the World Cup roster and preparations, he added: "Compiling the roster is not an easy task, as there are many options, especially in the attack line, while there are fewer options in the midfield and flanks. However, there is the possibility to select the right players for the upcoming friendly matches and the World Cup finals."

Regarding his continuous communication with Real Madrid players, Ancelotti said: "Yes, sometimes, after the Manchester City match, I congratulated the club and its president, and I also talk to the players. A few days ago, I spoke with Rodrygo to check on his situation. I am indeed in constant contact."

Regarding the changes and challenges at Real Madrid, the Italian coach noted: "Football changes with some small things, and this alters the chemistry within the team, not just in terms of the environment, not just replacing Kroos with Mbappe. In the same year, Nacho left, Carvajal got injured, and Modric played less. The old generation that created a great atmosphere in the dressing room is no longer there, and a new generation of players must come in to inject personality and example. This doesn't happen with the push of a button; it takes time. Mbappe's arrival coincided with the departure of Kroos and Nacho, creating a different atmosphere. Mbappe performed excellently, scoring around 50 goals, but the team faced difficulties in winning titles because football is about small details, and when something changes, it doesn't always succeed."

Regarding Vinicius Junior, Ancelotti confirmed: "Vinicius has never fallen short in important matches. I don't recall him failing in a semi-final or quarter-final. He might have been upset in the Valencia match and stepped away from his performance, but he has never done that in important matches. I am confident he will deliver a great World Cup if he is called up."

Regarding the match between Real Madrid and Manchester City, Ancelotti said: "Yes, Real Madrid will qualify; they must defend well and maintain balance."

Regarding Valverde's amazing hat-trick and Ancelotti's message, he added: "I wasn't surprised by him scoring three goals, that's why I kept my coaching license, but it was incredible. I sent him a message and said, 'What a shame you don't have a Brazilian passport.'"

Matches
Videos
News
Standings
Transfer
settings