Carlo Ancelotti reacts to record-breaking Real Madrid trophy victory | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti couldn't contain his satisfaction at becoming the most trophy-laden coach in the history of the Spanish giants.

Ancelotti brought his personal haul to 15 titles after watching Madrid earn a 3-0 victory over Mexican outfit Pachuca on Wednesday night in FIFA's inaugural Intercontinental Cup final. The Italian boss had overseen two triumphs in the competition's predecessor, the Club World Cup, and will have the chance to add a 16th crown in the expanded version of the tournament next summer.

A 15th title took the victorious veteran above the tally of 14 amassed by the legendary figure of Miguel Munoz in the 1960s. "There are a lot of them!" Ancelotti beamed post-game, unable to wipe a cheek-aching grin off his face. "I am very pleased, very happy. It is a success."

Madrid's smiling boss added: "It is something very important. We closed this 2024 in a spectacular way... more could not be done. But, as always at Real Madrid, now we think about 2025."

Carlo Ancelotti collected his latest medal from FIFA president Gianni Infantino / Simon Holmes/GettyImages

The reigning Spanish and European champions have not enjoyed an entirely successful campaign. After adding the UEFA Super Cup to the swollen cabinet in August, Madrid have struggled to be at their fluent best since Kylian Mbappe's arrival. A proliferation of injuries to key players across the squad hasn't aided the club's quest for silverware.

"Looking back and seeing that I have won so much, for so many years, makes me happy," the serial champion said. "I am happy. But always keeping in mind what Real Madrid is. A club that demands spectacular concentration. Keep going. More."

When asked for the favourite of his 15 titles, Ancelotti reluctantly selected two Champions League triumphs: "It's difficult to say, but 'La Decima' [in 2014] was special for me and for Madrid. Also the victory in the Champions League in Paris [in 2022]. If I have to choose, it was these two."

Ancelotti is the only manager to have ever won the top-flight title in all five of Europe's major leagues. Yet, his two spells in the Spanish capital have been his most successful. "Winning titles at Real Madrid is easier than in other places," Ancelotti admitted, "you have a fantastic club, a fan base that pushes you and the squad has the best players in the world."