In a recent interview with DAZN last week, Real Madrid manager Ancelotti also spoke about his affinity for Los Blancos as well as his former club AC Milan, stating that these two clubs are the ones that he holds closest to his heart.

“Both, 50-50. They are the two clubs I am closest to. Milan because I played there, Real Madrid because it represents the pinnacle in the world of football,” he said.

The Real Madrid head coach also praised midfielder Federico Valverde as a “modern midfielder” who embodies the physical demands of modern-day football.

“He’s very good. He’s the modern midfielder. Football now requires less quality and more physical ability. He’s the typical box-to-box midfielder,” Ancelotti said of the Uruguayan international.

Ancelotti’s comments came before Real Madrid’s defeat to Villarreal this past Saturday, in the aftermath of which Valverde was involved in a controversial incident with Alex Baena.

There was also great praise for Vinicius Jr, with Ancelotti backing the Brazilian to become one of the best players in the world over the next decade.

“Vinicius is a very strong player. He is incredibly talented because, in addition to the Brazilian technique, he has extraordinary physical power. He is tireless. When he stands out the most is at the end of games because he lasts longer,” Ancelotti said.

The Italian coach went on to acknowledge the contributions of Real Madrid legends, who have helped the club win multiple Champions League titles.

“Modric, Kroos, Benzema, Carvajal, Nacho, Marcelo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Casemiro have made history. They’ve won 5 Champions League, nobody else could. They’re legends,” he said.

Modric, for one, is likely to continue his spell at Santiago Bernabeu, with his contract extension imminent. The same should apply to Kroos as well, though the German is taking his decision before making a definitive decision over his future.

Finally, Ancelotti also praised the humility of Real Madrid’s current squad, adding, “The legends we have at the club like Modrić, Benzema – they’re all very humble. This has been the key to the success of last season. The youngsters have found a very good environment and adapted really well.”