"It allowed me to learn" - Carlo Ancelotti names his 'worst mistake' as Real Madrid head coach

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed the 'worst mistake' that he has made during his time at the club. The Italian claimed that his unwillingness to accept a lower salary during negotiations for a contract extension in his first spell allowed him to 'learn' and keep in mind during his second tenure.

Ancelotti was appointed as Real manager in July 2013 and held the position until the end of the 2014-15 season. Under his stewardship, Los Blancos lifted a Champions League title, a FIFA Club World Cup, a Copa del Rey and a UEFA Super Cup title.

Despite his incredible success, the Italian was unable to agree upon a contract extension with the club. The legendary tactician has now revealed that he 'pushed' Real Madrid too hard during the negotiations, causing them to pull out and part ways with him.

In an interview with French media outlet L'Equipe, Ancelotti claimed (via Madrid Universal):

"Making only good decisions in 30 years of career is impossible. For example, I had a bad year here (2014/15 season) and I was close to renewing."

"The club wanted to keep me, but I pushed too hard regarding my salary and they stopped the negotiation. It was the worst mistake I could have made but it allowed me to learn," Ancelotti concluded.

The 65-year-old was given a chance to make amends when he was appointed as Real Madrid's manager for a second time in July 2021.

In his second stint, Ancelotti has helped the Merengues add two more UCL titles, a FIFA Club World Cup, two LaLiga titles, a Copa Del Rey title and multiple Super Cup titles to their cabinet thus far.

"They can talk to me about anything" - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti opens up on his man-management

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti claimed that he allows his players to be open and frank with him about everything. The Italian tactician said that he wants to be 'friends' with the members of his squad, stating that he places everyone on the same level.

Ancelotti is the most successful manager in UEFA Champions League history, masterminding his side to victory on five occasions. He has been at the helm of top European sides like Juventus, Chelsea, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Bayern Munich and, of course, Real.

Despite managing some of the world's best talents, the Italian has claimed that he puts every member of the squad on the same pedestal, including himself. In a recent interview with L'Equipe, the 65-year-old said (via Madrid Universal):

"I am sure that having good relationships with players helps you win. I am and want to be friends with my players. They can talk to me about anything."

"I tell them, 'I want to build a good relationship with you. Remember, I’m not above you. But I’m not beneath you either.' The relationship has to fit within that context," Ancelotti added.

Up next, Ancelotti will be seen on the sidelines when Real Madrid take on Osasuna in LaLiga on Saturday, November 9.