Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has acknowledged Barcelona’s LaLiga triumph this season, but has issued a clear warning to the Catalan club, promising that things will not be the same in the upcoming campaign.
Barcelona clinched the 2024/25 LaLiga title under the leadership of newly-appointed head coach Hansi Flick, marking a successful debut season for the German tactician. The Blaugrana’s consistent performances and attacking flair throughout the season saw them lift the title ahead of rivals Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.
Reacting to Barcelona’s achievement, Ancelotti commended Flick’s men for their performance but insisted that Real Madrid would come back stronger next season.
“Barcelona did very well this season. They played good football and deserved to win this league,” Ancelotti said, speaking to reporters after Madrid’s training session on Friday, as reported by Madrid Xtra.
“But next season, it will be different.”
Ancelotti’s remarks reflect the fierce rivalry between Spain’s two biggest clubs, even as he prepares to bid farewell to the Santiago Bernabéu for a new chapter in his career.
End of an Era at Real Madrid
The Italian tactician is set to step down as Real Madrid’s head coach at the end of the current season to assume the role of head coach for the Brazil national team, a move that has been confirmed by both parties. His final matches in charge will be against Sevilla and Real Sociedad, giving Madrid fans one last opportunity to see him on the touchline.
Ancelotti, 65, leaves behind a remarkable legacy at Real Madrid. Across two separate spells, he has amassed an impressive 15 trophies, making him the most successful manager in the club’s illustrious history.
His accolades at Real Madrid include:
- 2 UEFA Champions League titles (2014, 2022)
- 2 LaLiga titles (2021/22, 2023/24)
- 2 Copa del Rey titles
- 2 Spanish Super Cups
- 3 UEFA Super Cups
- 2 FIFA Club World Cups
- 2 Intercontinental trophies
Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility, calm demeanor, and ability to manage big personalities have earned him immense respect across the footballing world. His bond with the Madrid faithful and club president Florentino Pérez remains strong, even as he prepares to embark on his new journey with the Brazilian national team.
Hansi Flick’s Impact at Barcelona
Meanwhile, across El Clásico lines, Hansi Flick’s arrival at Camp Nou has brought a new sense of identity and discipline to Barcelona. The former Bayern Munich and Germany manager replaced Xavi Hernández at the start of the season and quickly stamped his authority on the squad.
Flick’s attacking style of play, high pressing system, and focus on youth development have revitalized a Barcelona side that struggled for consistency in recent years. Under his leadership, players like Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, and Vitor Roque flourished, while experienced figures such as Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong continued to provide leadership and quality.
Barcelona’s title triumph is seen by many as a signal of the club’s resurgence after years of financial and managerial instability. Flick’s balanced squad rotation and tactical clarity were praised throughout the season, as the Catalans held off a strong Real Madrid challenge to finish top of the table.
Ancelotti vs Flick: A New Chapter in El Clásico
The mutual respect between Ancelotti and Flick has been evident throughout the season, with both managers speaking highly of one another in press conferences. However, Ancelotti’s parting message makes it clear that while he respects Barcelona’s success, he believes Madrid will be better equipped next season.
“They’ve done well this time. But at Real Madrid, we don’t stay down for long,” Ancelotti reportedly told his players in the dressing room following Barcelona’s title confirmation.
Madrid fans will be eager to see how their club responds in the summer transfer window. With Ancelotti’s departure imminent, all eyes are on who will take the reins at the Bernabéu. Several high-profile names have been linked to the role, including Xabi Alonso, Zinedine Zidane, and even a potential return for José Mourinho.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
In the short term, Real Madrid will look to end their season on a high with victories in their remaining LaLiga fixtures against Sevilla and Real Sociedad. These matches will serve as a farewell celebration for Ancelotti, who has earned legendary status among Madridistas.
Off the pitch, the focus will quickly turn to rebuilding for next season. Madrid are expected to be active in the transfer market, with links to Kylian Mbappé, Alphonso Davies, and several emerging talents. The return of key players from injury, including Thibaut Courtois and Éder Militão, will also bolster the squad’s strength.
Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s move to the Brazilian national team represents an exciting new challenge. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the five-time world champions will be hoping that the experienced Italian can guide them to another title, ending their two-decade drought on the world stage.
A Final Word
As Carlo Ancelotti prepares to exit LaLiga with grace and dignity, his legacy at Real Madrid remains secure. Yet, his parting words “Next season, it will be different” serve as a reminder that Madrid’s hunger for success never fades.
Barcelona may have lifted the trophy this year, but in Spanish football, dominance is always temporary and the next battle is never far away.
