Hansi Flick Pays Tribute to Ancelotti Ahead of Barça-Real Final: ‘Carlo Is…’

With just a few days left before the highly anticipated clash between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final (Saturday, 10 PM), FC Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, took the opportunity to pay a heartfelt tribute to his Real Madrid counterpart, Carlo Ancelotti. This moment of mutual respect between two iconic figures of European football comes just hours before a top-level duel that promises to be rich in emotion and spectacle.

Tension is mounting as FC Barcelona and Real Madrid prepare to lock horns in a Copa del Rey final that is shaping up to be a clash of titans. This encounter, which is already generating immense fervor among fans of both sides, represents much more than a simple football match. It is a confrontation between two philosophies, two styles of play, and two histories intimately linked to the grandeur of Spanish and world football.

But beyond the bitterness of the competition and the intensity of the sporting stakes, a feeling of deep and sincere respect remains intact between the two men who will be directing operations from the bench. Hansi Flick, the architect of Barcelona’s resurgence, and Carlo Ancelotti, the Italian maestro at the helm of the White House, embody in themselves the elegance and grandeur of this sport.

Present at the press conference on the eve of this crucial encounter, Hansi Flick did not miss the opportunity to acknowledge Carlo Ancelotti’s immense career and human qualities. “Real Madrid has one of the best coaches in the world,” declared the German tactician, emphasizing the inestimable value of his counterpart.

Flick then went on to express his sympathy in the face of the recent criticism that Ancelotti has been subjected to. “What is happening to Ancelotti is not pleasant. He has won everything in all the clubs. He’s a gentleman, I have the greatest respect for him,” he added, testifying to his admiration for the Italian coach’s longevity and exceptional record.

It is true that Carlo Ancelotti, at the head of Real Madrid, displays a record that commands respect and admiration. A four-time winner of the Champions League, a rare and prestigious feat, he has also been crowned champion in five of the greatest European leagues (Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain), a unique achievement that demonstrates his ability to adapt and triumph in different contexts.

Ancelotti is much more than just a successful coach. He is a symbol of elegance and fair play, a man who has won the hearts of players, fans, and his peers with his human approach and his management style based on respect and trust. His longevity at the highest level and his ability to maintain a competitive team over the years are proof of his immense talent and professionalism.

For Hansi Flick, who himself experienced consecration with Bayern Munich before taking over the reins at FC Barcelona, this Clasico represents much more than a simple sporting rivalry. “It’s a pleasure to see him again this weekend, he’s an incredible coach,” he said, emphasizing the pleasure he feels in meeting Ancelotti on the field, not as an opponent, but as a peer.

Beyond the compliments and expressions of respect, this Copa del Rey final promises a thrilling spectacle from a sporting and tactical point of view. The encounter between Ancelotti’s experience and wisdom and Flick’s tactical rigor and ambition is shaping up to be a clash that is as intense as it is respectful.

The two coaches, who have marked the history of football with their successes and unique styles, will have to devise ingenious strategies to thwart the opponent’s plans and lead their team to victory. The 2025 Copa del Rey Clasico therefore promises to be an exceptional moment in football, where the talent of the players will combine with the mastery of the coaches to offer an unforgettable spectacle.