Carlo Ancelotti spoke ahead of Wednesday’s Copa del Rey clash between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad, and he didn’t hold back when addressing LaLiga president Javier Tebas regarding his latest comments about Los Blancos. “Tebas talks too much about Real Madrid,” Ancelotti said.
Ancelotti frustrated with Javier Tebas
Ancelotti has been increasingly vocal in press conferences—a rare sight for the usually composed Italian coach. However, a series of controversial refereeing decisions and constant criticism of Real Madrid seem to have tested his patience. This time, Ancelotti took aim at Javier Tebas, a self-proclaimed Madridista who recently stated that he feels “ashamed” of the club’s behavior, labeling them “crybabies.”
“Tebas talks too much about Real Madrid. Since I’ve been here, he’s disrespected millions of Madrid fans with these comments. There are far more important issues, and he should focus on solving the real problems in Spanish football.” “I don’t know what he’s ashamed of. Every Real Madrid fan should feel proud to support this club,” the Italian added.
Tebas’ remarks spark tension
One of Tebas’ most controversial claims was that Real Madrid’s complaints about referees are driven by the media. He suggested that the club is deliberately pushing a “non-existent conspiracy” to make fans believe the referees are biased against them. “They are trying to convince Madridistas that referees are against them. It’s an insult to the rest of the clubs. If a team beats Madrid, it’s never because they were better, but because the referee supposedly made biased calls,” Tebas argued.
Open war between Madrid and Tebas
Tensions escalated further when the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced an investigation into Real Madrid, following a formal complaint from Javier Tebas. The complaint was sparked by Real Madrid’s reaction to the refereeing decisions in their match against Espanyol, where the club heavily criticized the officials for failing to punish a challenge by Romero on Kylian Mbappé. Adding to their frustration, Romero later scored the game’s only goal, handing Madrid a 1-0 defeat.
Copa del Rey showdown: Mbappé traveling with the team
Ancelotti also used the press conference to discuss Real Madrid’s preparations for their Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad. He confirmed that Kylian Mbappé will travel to San Sebastián, despite recent concerns over his fitness. “Mbappé is traveling. He had a dental issue and couldn’t train, but he’s available for Wednesday,” Ancelotti confirmed. Another key player making the trip is Fede Valverde, whose position in the starting XI remains uncertain. “Valverde could return to right back. We’ll see how I set up the team,” the Italian coach added.
Ancelotti on Arda Güler’s situation
Ancelotti also addressed growing concerns about Arda Güler’s lack of playing time, but dismissed any notion of internal conflict. “I see him every day. He’s happy sometimes, less happy at others—it’s normal. No player enjoys sitting on the bench.”
“Güler works hard, learns, and wants to play. It’s a process, just like it was for Rodrygo, Vinicius, and Valverde. He needs time to adapt to the best squad in the world. Anyone who doesn’t understand that needs to rethink their expectations,” Ancelotti explained.