Carlo Ancelotti names the only team that can win the Champions League this season instead of Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti, the mastermind behind Real Madrid’s latest Champions League triumph, has confidently declared that only one other team stands a realistic chance of lifting the coveted trophy this season. Despite Madrid’s dominance in European football, the Italian tactician believes that the winner of their upcoming tie against Manchester City will be the one to go all the way.

Real Madrid, the reigning champions, enter this year’s knockout stage with a weight of expectations following their 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in last season’s final. However, their journey in the newly formatted group stage was far from smooth. The Spanish giants suffered three losses, including setbacks against AC Milan, Liverpool, and Lille, raising questions about their ability to defend their title.

Unlike previous years when Madrid strolled through the group phase, this time they finished outside the automatic qualification spots, forcing them into a high-stakes play-off round. Their opponent? Manchester City, the 2023 champions and one of the most formidable forces in world football under Pep Guardiola.

Ahead of the first leg at the Etihad Stadium, Ancelotti addressed the media with a statement that sent ripples across the footballing world. The experienced manager, who has won the Champions League more times than any other coach, insisted that the winner of the Real Madrid vs. Manchester City clash will go on to lift the trophy.

“I am convinced the team that goes through from this tie will go on to win the competition,” Ancelotti boldly claimed. His words reflect both the respect he has for City and the confidence he has in his own squad’s ability to rise to the occasion.

Ancelotti did not shy away from acknowledging the challenge ahead, describing the tie as the toughest possible draw. “It seems like a ‘Clasico’ because we have played each other a lot of times in this competition. It’s the most difficult game we can face, regardless of form,” he admitted.

Since Guardiola took charge of Manchester City, the two clubs have developed an intense rivalry in Europe, meeting in some of the most dramatic ties in recent Champions League history. Ancelotti is well aware of Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and admitted that preparing for such a game is never easy.

“They are one of the best teams in Europe, and they have the best manager out there. It’s a nightmare preparing for games against him because he always has ideas that make you think,” he said, heaping praise on his long-time rival.

What makes Ancelotti’s statement even more intriguing is his omission of other European heavyweights. Liverpool, who dominated their group stage by winning seven out of eight matches, and Barcelona, who also put in a strong showing, were not even mentioned as potential winners.

This snub might raise eyebrows, especially among Liverpool and Barcelona fans who have high hopes for their clubs this season. However, Ancelotti’s reasoning is clear: the Champions League is as much about experience and mentality as it is about form. Few clubs have the winning DNA of Real Madrid, and Manchester City, as defending champions, have now developed a similar aura of invincibility.

Real Madrid have lifted the trophy a record 15 times, reinforcing their status as the kings of Europe. Ancelotti himself has won it five times as a manager—twice with AC Milan and three times with Madrid. Another triumph this season would see him extend his record and further cement his legacy.

However, questions linger about Ancelotti’s long-term future at the club. Reports suggest that the Italian could consider stepping down at the end of the season, despite having another year left on his contract. His recent comments suggest that he remains as hungry as ever for silverware.

Back in November, Ancelotti gave an insight into his ambitions, stating: “Before stopping, I would like to win a new Champions League. And then another. Every coach wants to get to the top.”

His love for Real Madrid is undeniable. “Coaching Real Madrid is really special. This club is the best in the world because of its history, its atmosphere, its fans. And so the goal was to, one day, be in that place,” he added.

As Madrid prepare for their titanic showdown against City, the stakes could not be higher. A victory would not only see them progress but also validate Ancelotti’s claim that this is the ultimate title-deciding clash.

For now, fans around the world eagerly await the first whistle at the Etihad, where two European powerhouses will collide. Will Ancelotti’s prophecy come true? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this is a match that could define the Champions League season.