Carlo Ancelotti: Real Madrid’s Most Decorated Coach
In the world of football, where legends are born and records are meant to be broken, Carlo Ancelotti has etched his name in the annals of Real Madrid’s storied history. On a memorable Wednesday, Ancelotti became the most decorated coach in Real Madrid’s history, following the team’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final. This triumph marked the 15th trophy Ancelotti has won with the club, a feat that cements his legacy as one of the greatest managers to ever grace the Santiago Bernabéu.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the magnitude of this achievement. Ancelotti’s journey with Real Madrid has been nothing short of remarkable. In two separate spells at the club—first from 2013 to 2015, and then from 2021 onwards—he has amassed an impressive collection of silverware. His trophy cabinet now boasts three Champions League titles, two LaLiga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, two Spanish Supercopas, three UEFA Super Cups, two Club World Cups, and now, the Intercontinental Cup.
To put this into perspective, the previous record was held by the legendary Miguel Muñoz, who managed Real Madrid for 14 years between 1960 and 1974. Muñoz’s impressive haul included two European Cups, nine league titles, two Copas del Rey, and one Intercontinental Cup. Ancelotti’s achievement is a testament to his tactical acumen, leadership, and ability to inspire his players to greatness.
Reflecting on the victory over Pachuca, Ancelotti expressed his satisfaction, saying, “I’m very happy … It’s a success. We took control little by little, and ended the game well. We have those differences of quality always, but we also have to show the right attitude. Today, in the end, I liked that. In the end, up front, we made the difference … In attack we did well. We have a lot of quality, Kylian [Mbappé] played a good game, and Rodrygo scored. We’re happy.”
It’s not just Ancelotti who is basking in the glory of this achievement. The players, too, have been quick to acknowledge the impact of their manager. Vinícius Júnior, who was on the scoresheet alongside Mbappé and Rodrygo, credited Ancelotti for the club’s success, saying, “Congratulations to the mister, he deserves it, he gives us freedom, he’s perfect for us.” Meanwhile, Fede Valverde echoed these sentiments, stating, “He deserves it. He’s won everything. He guides us.”
Looking ahead, Ancelotti will have the opportunity to add to his already impressive trophy haul in January, when Real Madrid will compete in the Spanish Supercopa in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The team is set to face Mallorca in the semifinal on January 9, with a potential final against either Barcelona or Athletic Club three days later.
Ancelotti’s journey with Real Madrid has been a rollercoaster ride. He first joined the club in June 2013, leading them to a Champions League victory in his debut season. However, after a less successful second campaign, he was dismissed in May 2015. In a surprising turn of events, Ancelotti returned to the club in June 2021 and has since orchestrated two LaLiga and Champions League doubles, in 2022 and 2024.
Beyond his achievements with Real Madrid, Ancelotti’s illustrious career spans nearly three decades, during which he has set numerous records. He is the only coach to have won league titles in Europe’s ‘big five leagues’—in Spain with Real Madrid, in Italy with AC Milan, in Germany with Bayern Munich, in England with Chelsea, and in France with Paris Saint-Germain. Furthermore, Ancelotti is the only manager to have won five Champions Leagues, having twice lifted the trophy as AC Milan coach in 2003 and 2007.
- Carlo Ancelotti: Most decorated coach in Real Madrid’s history
- 15 trophies with Real Madrid
- Only coach to win league titles in Europe’s ‘big five leagues’
- Five-time Champions League winner
As we celebrate Ancelotti’s remarkable achievements, it’s clear that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of football managers and players alike. His ability to adapt, innovate, and lead by example has set a benchmark for success in the world of football.
Originally Written by: Alex Kirkland,Rodrigo Faez
