Carlo Ancelotti discussed dealing with stress, career setbacks and why Zlatan Ibrahimovic “is totally different” to his public image.
The former Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich boss was at the presentation of a book on the ‘demons’ that can often affect great players.
“The spotlight can sometimes disguise the difficulties that these people have, as they are the centre of attention, but remain young men without much life experience,” said Ancelotti.
Carlo Ancelotti discussed dealing with stress, career setbacks and why Zlatan Ibrahimovic “is totally different” to his public image.
The former Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich boss was at the presentation of a book on the ‘demons’ that can often affect great players.
“The spotlight can sometimes disguise the difficulties that these people have, as they are the centre of attention, but remain young men without much life experience,” said Ancelotti.
“This is why the locker room is a sacred space, as it’s where you really see a person. For example, Zlatan Ibrahimovic gives off an image of himself that is totally different from the one you see in the locker room.
“Life is like football, we must view difficulties as opportunities to grow. It’s not easy to do, but we should try not to take ourselves too seriously. We need the utmost balance and objectivity. At times, a problem can seem big and have a simple solution, you must never see an obstacle as insurmountable.
“I too had moments of difficulty, but I never considered them so serious. Perhaps I was just naïve, but they did help show me what was most important in life and in work. Injuries and accidents can happen, but there are more important things than defeat.
“It’s a high-pressure job, but we must keep it in perspective, as life has much worse problems we have to deal with.”
Probably the most damaging setback of Ancelotti’s career was in Istanbul, where Milan fumbled a 3-0 Champions League Final lead over Liverpool, losing on penalties in 2005.
“It’s all part of a journey. If I have to choose, I’d rather remember the victories of 2007 or 2003, letting the events of 2005 slide. There are those who say you shouldn’t celebrate after a win and immediately focus on the next match, but I say no! I say you need to celebrate, that way you can feel ready for the next test.
“The job we do is about joy and fun. Stress can be harnessed and turned into positive energy.”