Ancelotti in league of his own

'Grateful for chance'

When Florentino Perez agreed to bring Ancelotti back for a second spell last year, many wondered if the appointment was overly cautious, a backward step among the cluster of super-clubs with younger and more progressive coaches at the helm.

But Ancelotti's gratitude for a return to a level he thought no longer possible in the twilight years of his career has reverberated at Madrid, his carefree attitude creating a sense of a club protected from pressure and unaffected by outside noise.

"If the club is happy with me, great," said Ancelotti. "If not, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to manage Real Madrid again."

Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale were relegated to the sidelines with respect and without retribution.

A 4-0 defeat by Barcelona at home, for which Ancelotti was at least partially responsible, could have undermined everything but instead it became a blip, the team responding and Ancelotti recovering. "We didn't lose our heads," he said.

Whether Ancelotti is Madrid's coach for the future remains to be seen. Xavi's Barca is likely to offer a much sterner challenge next season while in the Champions League, against the very best opponents, there is evidence to suggest Madrid needs a more modern approach.

The fact it has been so far ahead in Spain while also a little behind in Europe brings its own questions about the current state of Spanish soccer, financial advantage and the ongoing pursuit of a European Super League.

In La Liga, Real Madrid was unquestionably superior.

Now Madrid's focus turns to a Champions League semifinal second leg against Manchester City at the Bernabeu, with the host trailing 4-3 from the first match.

"Winning La Liga is special," midfielder Modric told Real Madrid TV on Saturday as he paid tribute to the fans who were unable to watch the club win the title in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We played a great match, the atmosphere was incredible and we hope to repeat that Wednesday against City."

Agencies