Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has hailed Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership as Brazil prepare to face Japan on Monday, describing the national team manager as a mentor who combines tactical expertise with deep personal care for his players.
Rodrygo, who worked under Ancelotti during Real Madrid’s 2022 Champions League triumph, highlighted the Italian’s decisive impact during the semi-final comeback against Manchester City. With the Spanish side trailing 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu and facing elimination, Ancelotti summoned the winger from the bench and instructed him to play aggressively. Rodrygo scored twice in the final minutes to force extra time, with Madrid eventually progressing to defeat Liverpool in the final.
Writing about his experiences, Rodrygo emphasised that Ancelotti’s methods are often misunderstood by those outside the dressing room. He explained that observers frequently struggle to predict the Italian’s decisions, as journalists might expect one approach while the coach chooses another. However, he insisted that the manager’s selections are always carefully considered, stemming from remarkable coherence and deep tactical knowledge.
The 23-year-old described the Brazil boss as offering guidance on matters beyond football. Rodrygo stated that Ancelotti acts as a father figure for the squad, adding that he deeply respects the Italian both as a coach and as an individual.
Rodrygo traced his development through a series of influential mentors. At six years old, coach Eric Goes registered him for a municipal tournament in Osasco despite his young age. Jair Ventura promoted him to the Santos first team in 2017, believing in his potential to reach Europe. Former Brazil manager Tite subsequently handed him his senior international debut after Ventura recommended him, and included him in the 2022 World Cup squad. Rodrygo also recently met Luiz Felipe Scolari, who guided Brazil to the 2002 World Cup title, backstage at a television show in New York, noting the former manager’s emphasis on building genuine human connections within the squad.
Brazil face Japan on Monday as Ancelotti continues his tenure as national team manager, with Rodrygo expecting supporters to grow increasingly confident in the Italian’s approach as they witness his work firsthand.