Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has refused to criticise his players following a dramatic 4-3 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona on Sunday — a result that effectively handed the Catalan side the La Liga title.
The loss at Camp Nou leaves Madrid seven points adrift with only three matches remaining, ending their chances of winning any domestic trophy this season. The result compounds what has been a disappointing campaign, with earlier exits in both the UEFA Champions League and the Copa del Rey.
Despite a hat-trick from French forward, Kylian Mbappé, Madrid failed to hold onto a two-goal lead, extending their winless streak against Barcelona this season. The match also exposed Madrid’s vulnerability at the back, with five key defenders sidelined due to injury.
Speaking after the encounter, Ancelotti acknowledged defensive shortcomings but praised the fighting spirit of his squad.
“In matches like this, you must attack and defend well—we did the first but failed in the second,” he said. “Still, we created chances and nearly equalised twice late on. We competed until the end against a great team.”
The Italian tactician, who is expected to depart at the end of the season, dismissed suggestions that recent failures have tainted his legacy.
“Everyone can judge, but I saw two top teams battling fiercely,” he said. “The commitment was there. We fought to the last minute.”
Madrid will now finish the season without domestic honours, as the club prepares for a managerial transition and potential squad overhaul in the summer.
