Ancelotti: La Decima? Real Madrid came close to losing

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti, together with Emilio Butragueno, director of Institutional Relations of Los Blancos and general director of the Real Madrid Graduate School-European University, inaugurated the 2021/22 academic year on Wednesday.

At the event, the Italian spoke about recent successes, particularly Real Madrid's tenth Champions League triumph, as well as current events at the club.

"La Decima was something that everyone involved with Real Madrid wanted and [was] a great motivation," he said at the event.

"We came close to losing but, from the first minute until the last, the players wanted that title. It is the reason why Madrid won La Decima.

"It was the atmosphere, not just the group of players. The whole dressing room was very motivated, not just the players.

"[It was] also the doctors, the kitmen, among others. It was a special environment and everyone believed in it."

Ancelotti also spoke of the privilege of coaching Real Madrid.

"This is the most prestigious club, with the most history and the most fans; it is a great responsibility," he said.

"[The club] has 13 Champions League [titles] and no one else has that. This is due to its values and its aims, which have led it to this place in history.

"I was lucky enough to coach at this club a few years ago and now I'm trying to enjoy it again."

Ancelotti also gave some insight on how to create a winning team.

"The relationship between the players is a collective effort. A coach has to convey their idea of football," he said.

"I have been lucky enough to do something that I am passionate about and I have this passion every day.

"The key to being successful is doing something with passion. You have to work and have a bit of luck.

"Besides, you cannot give up. Leadership cannot be taught. It is something that is intrinsic."