Real Madrid Coach 2014: Who Was The Manager?

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

In 2014, Real Madrid had a season to remember, clinching La Décima, their tenth Champions League title. But who was the mastermind behind this incredible feat? Let's dive into the details of the Real Madrid coach in 2014 and explore his impact on the team.

Carlo Ancelotti: The Man at the Helm

The Real Madrid coach in 2014 was none other than the legendary Carlo Ancelotti. Ancelotti, an Italian football manager and former player, is widely regarded as one of the best and most successful managers in the world. His calm demeanor, tactical prowess, and ability to connect with players made him the perfect fit for the demanding environment at Real Madrid.

Ancelotti's arrival at Real Madrid in the summer of 2013 brought a sense of optimism and stability to the club. After a few turbulent seasons, Los Blancos were hungry for success, especially in the Champions League. Ancelotti's track record spoke for itself, having already won the Champions League twice with AC Milan. His mission was clear: deliver La Décima to the Madrid faithful.

Ancelotti's Tactical Approach

Carlo Ancelotti is known for his flexible and adaptable tactical approach. He isn't one to rigidly stick to a single formation or playing style. Instead, he assesses his players' strengths and weaknesses and tailors his tactics accordingly. In 2014, Ancelotti's Real Madrid primarily utilized a 4-3-3 formation, but he also wasn't afraid to switch things up when needed.

The 4-3-3 formation allowed Real Madrid to unleash their attacking firepower. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale on the wings, and Karim Benzema leading the line, Madrid possessed one of the most fearsome attacking trios in football history. Ancelotti's system provided them with the freedom to express themselves while also ensuring the team maintained its defensive shape.

Key Players and Their Roles

Ancelotti's success in 2014 wasn't solely down to tactics. He also had a squad brimming with world-class talent. Here’s a look at some of the key players and their roles:

  • Cristiano Ronaldo: The undisputed talisman of the team. Ronaldo's goal-scoring record in 2014 was simply phenomenal. He provided goals, assists, and leadership, making him an indispensable part of Ancelotti's plans.
  • Gareth Bale: Arriving in the summer of 2013, Bale quickly established himself as a key player. His pace, power, and ability to score crucial goals made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
  • Karim Benzema: Often overshadowed by Ronaldo and Bale, Benzema was a vital cog in the Real Madrid machine. His link-up play, work rate, and goals made him the perfect striker for Ancelotti's system.
  • Luka Modrić: The Croatian midfielder was the engine of the Real Madrid midfield. His vision, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of the game were crucial to the team's success.
  • Xabi Alonso: A veteran midfielder, Alonso provided experience, composure, and defensive steel to the Real Madrid midfield. His ability to read the game and break up attacks was invaluable.
  • Sergio Ramos: The heart and soul of the Real Madrid defense. Ramos's leadership, tackling, and aerial ability made him a formidable opponent for any striker. His late equalizer in the Champions League final will forever be etched in Real Madrid folklore.

The Road to La Décima

The 2013-2014 Champions League campaign was a rollercoaster ride for Real Madrid fans. After breezing through the group stage, they faced tough challenges in the knockout rounds.

  • Round of 16: Real Madrid faced Schalke 04, winning both legs comfortably with an aggregate score of 9-2.
  • Quarter-Final: A hard-fought tie against Borussia Dortmund, where Real Madrid narrowly advanced with a 3-2 aggregate score.
  • Semi-Final: A dominant performance against Bayern Munich, then managed by Pep Guardiola, with Real Madrid winning 5-0 on aggregate.
  • Final: The epic clash against Atletico Madrid in Lisbon. After going behind, Real Madrid fought back to win 4-1 in extra time, finally securing La Décima.

The Champions League final against Atletico Madrid was a tense and dramatic affair. Atletico, who had just won the La Liga title, proved to be a tough opponent. Diego Godín gave Atletico the lead in the first half, and they held onto it until the dying moments of the game. With Real Madrid staring defeat in the face, Sergio Ramos rose highest to head home a dramatic equalizer in the 93rd minute, sending the game into extra time.

In extra time, Real Madrid's superior fitness and quality shone through. Goals from Gareth Bale, Marcelo, and Cristiano Ronaldo sealed a memorable 4-1 victory, sparking wild celebrations among the Real Madrid players and fans.

Ancelotti's Legacy at Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti's time at Real Madrid was relatively short, but he left a lasting legacy. In addition to La Décima, he also won the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup during his two seasons at the club. More importantly, he instilled a sense of unity, calmness, and professionalism within the team.

Ancelotti's ability to manage big egos and create a harmonious environment was crucial to Real Madrid's success. He earned the respect of his players and created a strong bond with them. His departure in 2015 was met with disappointment by many fans and players alike.

Real Madrid Post-2014

After Ancelotti's departure, Real Madrid went through a period of instability, with several managerial changes. However, the foundation that Ancelotti laid helped the club achieve further success in the Champions League. Under Zinedine Zidane, Real Madrid won three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018, further cementing their status as the kings of Europe.

Real Madrid's triumph in 2014 was a culmination of years of hard work, investment, and ambition. Carlo Ancelotti played a pivotal role in guiding the team to glory, showcasing his tactical brilliance and man-management skills. La Décima will forever be remembered as one of the greatest achievements in Real Madrid's history, and Ancelotti's name will always be associated with that success.

Conclusion

So, to answer the question, the Real Madrid coach in 2014 was the iconic Carlo Ancelotti. His leadership, tactical acumen, and ability to galvanize a team of superstars led Real Madrid to their long-awaited tenth Champions League title. Ancelotti's impact on Real Madrid extended beyond just winning trophies; he fostered a culture of unity and respect within the club. While his tenure was relatively brief, his legacy remains etched in the annals of Real Madrid history, solidifying his place among the pantheon of great football managers. Remembering Ancelotti's Real Madrid brings back memories of a team at its peak, a testament to great coaching and exceptional talent working in perfect harmony. Guys, it was truly a magical time for Madridistas everywhere!