Zidane Questions Ancelotti’s Tactics Despite Victory Over Man City
Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has voiced his concerns over Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical approach, despite the team’s win against a struggling Manchester City. Speaking at a post-match press conference, Zidane warned that the same strategies could lead to disaster against stronger opponents like PSG and Liverpool.
Zidane’s Tactical Concerns
The former Madrid coach, who led the club to three consecutive Champions League titles, criticized the team’s defensive gaps and lack of midfield balance. “We left too much space between the lines. City is struggling, but better teams will exploit these weaknesses,” he cautioned. Zidane believes Ancelotti’s tactics prioritize attacking play at the expense of defensive stability, a risky approach against high-pressing teams.
A Warning to Ancelotti
While acknowledging Ancelotti’s success, Zidane stressed the importance of tactical adaptability, especially as the Champions League knockout stages approach. “Carlo is a great coach, but in Europe, you need to be flexible. Overconfidence in one approach can be costly,” he said.
Ancelotti’s Response
Ancelotti remained composed in response to Zidane’s remarks. “I respect Zizou’s opinion—he’s a club legend. But every manager has his style. We played to our strengths, and it worked,” he stated. However, sources suggest Zidane’s criticism has sparked discussions within the club’s leadership.
The Road Ahead for Madrid
With crucial clashes against PSG and Liverpool on the horizon, Ancelotti faces pressure to refine his tactics. Whether he will adjust his approach or stand by his current strategy remains to be seen. As Zidane summed up, “Winning in Europe isn’t just about talent—it’s about strategy. The smallest tactical mistake can decide everything.”
