Carlo Ancelotti has offered his perspective on the recent evolution of Real Madrid, insisting that the team’s changes cannot be explained simply by replacing Toni Kroos with Kylian Mbappé. Speaking in an interview with Radio MARCA during its 25th anniversary celebration, the Italian coach — now manager of the Brazil national football team — reflected on his time at Madrid and the factors behind the team’s transformation.

According to Ancelotti, football teams can change dramatically due to small shifts within the squad.

“Football changes with small things, and when those things change, the chemistry changes as well,” he explained. The Italian pointed out that several events happened simultaneously, including Kroos’ departure, the exit of Nacho Fernández, an injury to Dani Carvajal and reduced playing time for Luka Modrić.

For Ancelotti, those changes marked the end of a generation that had built a strong and successful dressing-room culture at the club. “The old generation that created a fantastic atmosphere is gone, and a new generation must now bring character, personality and leadership,” he said.

He also defended Mbappé’s individual performance, highlighting the French forward’s impressive scoring record.

“Mbappé did fantastic work, scoring around 50 goals,” Ancelotti noted.

However, he stressed that football often comes down to small details and that rebuilding team chemistry takes time after major changes.

Now leading Brazil, Ancelotti is focused on guiding the national team toward success at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Even so, he admitted he still closely follows Real Madrid and remains in contact with several players. He also revealed that he congratulated club president Florentino Pérez after Madrid’s recent victory against Manchester City.

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