Real Madrid has experienced exceptional success under Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane. But which of these two coaches can be considered the best?
To answer this question, we have compared their management styles, titles, and relationships with players.
Carlo Ancelotti is known for his calm demeanor. He prefers to let players express their talent on the field. He has an adaptive style and emphasizes team balance. Under his leadership, Real Madrid has won several major titles, including "La Décima," their tenth Champions League title in 2014. This success marked a turning point in the club's history.
Ancelotti is currently the most titled coach in Real Madrid's history with a total of 15 trophies. He surpasses Miguel Munoz (14 titles) and Zinedine Zidane (11 titles). His triumphs include three Champions League titles (2014, 2022, 2024), two Spanish league titles (2022, 2024), two Copa del Rey titles (2014, 2023), two Spanish Super Cups (2022, 2024), three UEFA Super Cups (2014, 2022, 2024), two Club World Cups (2014, 2022), and one Intercontinental Cup in 2024.
Captain Luka Modric admires the man who has won everywhere he has coached. "Ancelotti perfectly understands the players. He knows how to motivate us while respecting our characters," said the 39-year-old Croatian midfielder.
This ability to create a serene atmosphere has allowed Ancelotti to maintain a stable team and conquer numerous titles.
Zinedine Zidane: The Charismatic Leader
Zinedine Zidane, a legendary former player, quickly became an iconic coach. He successfully led Real Madrid between 2016 and 2021. During this period, the Frenchman won three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, a historic feat.
Zidane relied on trust and closeness with his players. He used his experience as a player to inspire his team, as revealed by Cristiano Ronaldo. "Zidane is a unique coach. He perfectly understands what it means to play for Real Madrid. His presence motivates us to give our best," declared the five-time Ballon d'Or winner a few years ago.
This close relationship with players is a significant strength of Zidane's. He won a total of 11 trophies with Real Madrid, including three Champions League titles (2016, 2017, 2018), two Spanish league titles (2017, 2020), two Spanish Super Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, and two Club World Cups.
Comparing Styles: Ancelotti vs. Zidane
Carlo Ancelotti uses an adaptive system. He adjusts his strategies according to the team's strengths. For example, he used a three-man midfield with Casemiro, Kroos, and Modric to ensure perfect balance.
However, since Casemiro's departure to Manchester City, Ancelotti has relied more on youth. Fede Valverde has become his favorite, and French players Camavinga and Tchouameni play regularly, as Modric and Kroos seem older. The German has since retired, redistributing the midfield cards.
Today, Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Tchouameni are the starters in midfield. Camavinga, Modric, and Dani Ceballos are part of Ancelotti's rotation.
Ancelotti is appreciated for his calmness and understanding. Karim Benzema even stated a few years ago, "With Carlo, everything seems simple. He gives us confidence and lets us play our football."
Zidane, on the other hand, prefers a style based on trust. He motivates his players to surpass themselves, even in difficult moments. He has often succeeded in reversing complex situations, such as against Wolfsburg in 2016 or Atlético Madrid in 2017.
The French legend inspires through his aura. "Zizou is a natural leader. We follow him without question," Sergio Ramos explained a few years ago.
His closeness to the players allowed him to maintain a united team, even during difficult periods.
Conclusion
Both coaches have left their mark on Real Madrid's history. Ancelotti is an adaptive strategist capable of adapting to any situation. Zidane is a charismatic leader who inspires confidence.
The choice of the best coach depends on individual preferences. It is difficult to separate Ancelotti and Zidane. Ancelotti brings tactical expertise and valuable stability. Zidane, on the other hand, has made history with his Champions League treble and unique charisma.
While Ancelotti has become the most titled coach in Real Madrid's history