Yesterday I got upset with Bellingham, I called him and he didn't answer

Soccereco, Staff Writer

Published: 03:50, 5 Aug 2024

The Real Madrid coach also revealed that the British international immediately answered Vinícius Jr. afterward.

Carlo Ancelotti, the seasoned coach of Real Madrid, is navigating a crucial period of preseason preparations as he continues to shape his squad for the upcoming challenges.

Despite being without several key international players who are still enjoying a well-deserved break after participating in the European Championship and Copa América, Ancelotti is ensuring that his team remains focused and ready for the new season. These players, while on vacation, have been given tailored training programs to follow, ensuring they maintain their fitness levels and are ready to rejoin the team in optimal condition on August 7.

The timing is particularly important as Real Madrid gears up for the UEFA Super Cup, a prestigious fixture scheduled for August 14 against Atalanta in Warsaw, Poland. This match, which pits the winners of the Champions League against the Europa League victors, is seen as the first major test of the season and an opportunity for Real Madrid to add another trophy to their illustrious collection. The importance of the match is not lost on Ancelotti, who has been carefully planning his squad’s approach to ensure they are at their best when the competitive season kicks off.

During a recent press conference, Ancelotti shared a humorous anecdote that offered a glimpse into the dynamics within the squad. The Italian coach revealed that he had been slightly "upset" with one of his star players, Jude Bellingham, who had not answered his phone call the previous day. "Yesterday, I got upset with Bellingham because I called him, and he didn't answer," Ancelotti explained, with a lighthearted tone that indicated the incident was more amusing than serious. He went on to share that he had asked Vinícius Jr., another of the team’s young stars, to call Bellingham instead. "Then I asked Vinícius [Jr.] to call him, and he answered immediately. Vinícius handed me the phone, and I was able to talk to him. He needs to be careful," Ancelotti added with a smile, showing his ability to maintain a relaxed and positive atmosphere within the squad even as they prepare for the intense competition ahead.

Ancelotti’s approach to the UEFA Super Cup is both pragmatic and respectful of the contributions made by his players in securing the Champions League title. He has expressed his belief that those who played in the final and helped secure the prestigious trophy should be the ones to represent the club in the Super Cup. "I think those who won the Champions League should play in the final. The only ones missing are Nacho and Kroos," he stated. This decision highlights Ancelotti’s loyalty to his players and his understanding of the importance of continuity and reward for those who have performed at the highest level.

Real Madrid’s preseason tour in the United States has been a mixed bag in terms of results. The team faced tough opposition in their friendly matches, suffering defeats against AC Milan (1-0) and their arch-rivals Barcelona (2-1). These matches, although not competitive, have provided valuable insights into the squad’s current form and areas that need improvement. Ancelotti has been using these games to experiment with different tactics, lineups, and to give playing time to both established stars and younger talents eager to make their mark.

Despite the losses, Ancelotti remains focused on the bigger picture. The final match of the U.S. tour will be against Chelsea, another European heavyweight, which will offer one last opportunity to fine-tune the team before they return to Spain. This match is seen as a crucial test, not just in terms of performance but also in setting the tone for the Super Cup clash against Atalanta.

The decision to hold the UEFA Super Cup in Warsaw, Poland, adds an additional layer of intrigue to the match. Warsaw, a city with a rich footballing history, will provide a neutral yet vibrant setting for this continental showdown. Real Madrid will be looking to start their season with a statement win, and the Super Cup offers the perfect platform to do so.

Ancelotti’s experience and calm demeanor are key assets as he prepares his team for what promises to be a challenging but exciting season. With the likes of Bellingham and Vinícius Jr. in the squad, alongside a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents, Real Madrid is well-equipped to compete on multiple fronts. The preseason results may not have been ideal, but under Ancelotti’s guidance, the team is building towards peak performance when it truly matters.

As the countdown to the new season continues, the focus will increasingly shift to the Super Cup and the beginning of La Liga. For Ancelotti and his players, the coming weeks will be about fine-tuning, building chemistry, and ensuring that they are ready to compete at the highest level from the very first whistle. The humorous incident with Bellingham may have provided a light moment in the midst of serious preparations, but it also serves as a reminder of the human side of football a game that, at its heart, is about teamwork, communication, and the relationships that bind a squad together.