Carlo Ancelotti Remains Unbothered by Outside Distractions as Real Madrid Prepares to Face Arsenal

Real Madrid have set an impressive standard by clinching six Champions League titles over the past decade, but their passionate fans are raising alarms as the reigning European and Spanish champions endure a season marked by inconsistency.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti appears undeterred by the external noise, as Real gear up for their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Arsenal on Tuesday.

“We can’t let criticism distract us when we have matches every three days,” Ancelotti remarked during a press conference on Monday.

“Our focus is on analysing each game and preparing for the next one. Tomorrow’s match is crucial, but it only represents the first 90 minutes of the tie. It’s not the end of the road, as we have another 90 minutes to contest at the Santiago Bernabeu next week.”

After a nearly impeccable season where they secured both the Champions League and La Liga titles with just two defeats across all competitions, expectations soared with the arrival of French captain Kylian Mbappé.

However, Real’s form has faltered, resulting in five La Liga losses and additional setbacks in other tournaments, including two significant defeats to fierce rivals Barcelona, whom they will face again in the Copa del Rey final this month.

Following a disappointing 2-1 home loss to Valencia on Saturday, Real currently sit second in the La Liga standings, accumulating 63 points—four adrift of Barcelona—with only eight matches remaining.

Despite these challenges, Ancelotti remains optimistic after eliminating Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stages and local rivals Atlético Madrid in the round of 16.

“If I didn’t have faith that we can claim titles this season, I would have already walked away; perhaps I’d consider a holiday,” Ancelotti stated.

“We are committed to competing for all titles right until the end. If things don’t go our way, we’ll think about next season, but that’s not on the agenda just yet.

“Our experience in the Champions League is invaluable. It equips you with the knowledge to handle these high-pressure matches without fear.”