Real boss Ancelotti describes 2022 as one of his ‘most special years’

Carlo Ancelotti has described 2022 as one of his “most special years” after guiding Real Madrid to Champions League and LaLiga glory.

Los Blancos’ victory over Liverpool in Paris in May saw Ancelotti become the first coach to win Europe’s premier club competition on four occasions.

The 63-year-old, who has been linked with the vacant Brazil job, has reflected on a wonderful year and believes it ranks with the best in his career.

“This is a special year that came after a fairly troubled period,” he told Il Foglio.

“It was thought that my career was coming to an end. It was a unique season because of how we won, especially in the Champions League.

“Spectacular comebacks, overturning all predictions with a thousand difficulties to overcome. I consider this 2022 among the most special years in my life. Yes, just 12 months to remember.”

Despite suggestions he could replace Tite as Brazil boss, Ancelotti insisted his focus remains squarely on Madrid and steering them to yet another Champions League triumph.

“In fact, after the victory you never stop,” he added. 

“You immediately think about the future. You lift the Champions League number 14 and they immediately tell you to think about the 15th. 

“It is in the history and tradition of this club. Real Madrid is a football club, I repeat, a football club. Economy and finance are almost in the background. The sport aspect is what matters most. 

“And yet, the budgets have remained in order despite the demanding restructuring of the Santiago Bernabeu and the difficulties of the pandemic years during which all of football has suffered.”

Madrid, who sealed a 2-0 win over Valladolid on Friday in their first game since the World Cup, are next in action against fourth-tier Cacereno in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday.