Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti says he has no concerns about his future despite his team’s exit from the Champions League last night.
Arsenal eliminated the Spanish giants in the quarter-finals after claiming a 5-1 aggregate victory. Madrid struggled to break through Arsenal’s solid defence across both games.
When asked about his long-term future at the club, Ancelotti was reflective.
He said, “It could be next year, when my contract runs out. There is no problem about it. But when I am done here, I will be grateful to this club.
“It could be tomorrow, in one year, or in ten years, but I will be grateful to this club. And that’s it. Full stop.”
Ancelotti highlights Arsenal’s strength and looks ahead
Ancelotti admitted that his side had underperformed this season and credited Arsenal for their performance over the two legs.
“We have done very well in the last seasons, but this year we have had to suffer,” Ancelotti added.
“Things haven’t gone as expected, but it happens in sport because there are no unbeatable teams.
“Arsenal were better than us. We tried to do our best. Maybe the overturned penalty was a turning point. That could have changed it.”
He also praised Arsenal’s defensive efforts and intensity throughout the game.
“Arsenal defended very well,” he said. “We found it difficult to find spaces. We were better than normal in our intensity level, but it wasn’t enough.”
Despite the European disappointment, Ancelotti is focused on the challenges ahead in the domestic competitions.
“We’re now fighting for the league title,” Ancelotti said. “We’re at a disadvantage, but we have the game against Barca.
“And the Copa del Rey final and the Club World Cup, in an endless season. We have to pick ourselves up. With our heads held high, we can learn from our mistakes.”
Madrid are second in La Liga, four points behind leaders Barcelona with seven games remaining. The two sides meet in Barcelona on May 11.
