Ancelotti: The Cristiano Ronaldo advice he never forgot! | OneFootball

"Too much water kills the plant": The phrase from Ronaldo that left a mark on Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti / @x.com

Carlo Ancelotti, current Brazil national team manager, opened up in an interview with Real Madrid legend Jorge Valdano, as reported by Spanish newspapers Marca and Mundo Deportivo. The Italian tactician looked back on several memorable moments from his time at the helm of Los Blancos.

Ancelotti especially emphasized a fundamental principle in his eyes: at Real Madrid, the key to success lies above all in human management. "The way you treat the players is crucial," he underlined, reminding that management goes far beyond mere tactics.

The most decorated coach in Champions League history (five titles) spoke as leadership methods at the Merengue club are often debated, given the immense pressure and expectations that come with the job.

Ancelotti also talked about some tense moments in the dressing room, especially with Toni Kroos:

"One day, I substituted him and he got angry. The next day, I didn't bring up the subject. Then, just before going out onto the pitch, I asked him: 'Do you want us to talk again about what happened yesterday or shall we consider it behind us?' He answered: 'It's over.'"

"Too much water kills the plant": The phrase from Ronaldo that left a mark on Ancelotti

The Italian coach also recalled a memorable piece of advice he received from Cristiano Ronaldo during his first spell at Real Madrid, relating to training intensity:

"I remember a phrase from Cristiano: 'Too much water kills the plant.' That stuck with me. You have to find the right balance. Between training, preparation, travel and matches, everything has to be measured so the players can be at the peak of their energy and freshness."