I can’t forget two games against Liverpool – but now I’m making myself win at Real Madrid

Legendary Champions League manager Carlo Ancelotti has spoken about the highs and lows of his illustrious career, with Liverpool playing a big part in both.

Despite being the most decorated manager in the history of the competition, with an unrivaled six titles as both player and manager, two special finals continue to linger in his mind. The Real Madrid boss, now 64, was in charge of AC Milan during their infamous defeat to Liverpool in the 2005 final in Istanbul, a game often hailed as the most thrilling comeback in club football history.

Ancelotti was also linked with the Roma side beaten by Liverpool in the 1984 final, although he was ruled out through injury for the game itself. These pivotal moments remain as indelible in his memory as the triumphs that spurred him on to further accolades.

Liverpool’s stunning comeback in Istanbul 19 years ago, where they overturned a 3-0 half-time deficit to triumph on penalties, serves as a stark reminder of the emotional rollercoaster and drama inherent in any final clash.

With Real Madrid a record 14 Champions League trophies and chasing their 15th, Ancelotti is on the verge of a fifth managerial win in the elite competition.

Reflecting on his journey, the former Chelsea manager remarked: “I felt the biggest emotions in this competition, the biggest positive emotions as well as the biggest negative emotions.”

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He continued: “I can’t forget the (1984) final I lost to Liverpool when I was in Rome, nor the other final I lost to Liverpool in 2005 (as Milan manager). But there are also many positive memories. Passion definitely prevails and that’s what keeps me going.”

Ancelotti added: “We are very happy to play another final. Nerves will come but we aim to let them come as late as possible. We have to take advantage of this moment, this huge game, the most beautiful game of the year and , also the most beautiful to experience.”

With his cool demeanor and calm approach, Ancelotti exemplifies the modern manager, balancing tactics and human relations. His winning form at the Santiago Bernabeu earned him immense popularity among the team.

Even so, Ancelotti points out that he has had to adapt as a coach, stating that what was successful years ago would now be ridiculed in any dressing room. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, creating a balanced squad that combines youth and experience, with veterans such as Luka Modric and Toni Kroos shepherding the younger cohort.

Giving an insight into his coaching philosophy, he said: “It’s very important to keep learning because life changes and football changes and it’s essential to keep up to date. Relationships with colleagues and the exchange of ideas with them are also very important. If I proposed what I was doing 20 years ago as a coach, everyone would think I was a fool because things change, methods and trainings change, so you have to keep up with the times.

“The main attribute that the team has demonstrated this year is a consistent attitude, as well as focus and teamwork. Despite some difficulties at the beginning, it was an excellent season and the group’s togetherness and professionalism saw us through all the challenges. “