Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid avoided going into depth in evaluating the end-of-season departure of Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez. Xavi justified his decision by citing the pressure he faces on the Barcelona bench. Ancelotti did mention that he understands the decision made by his fellow professional.

"I understand," was Ancelotti's succinct response when asked if he understood Xavi's decision to leave the Barcelona bench.

Previously, Ancelotti insisted that he does not want "comparisons" to be made between Xavi's case and his own.

"I don't want anyone to make comparisons. I respect what Xavi has said, just as I respect all my colleagues. We have a fantastic job, with pressure, which is normal. My first thought is to respect everyone, their words, and their thoughts," he said.

"I don't want comparisons to be made. I respect his thoughts and decisions. That's it," he added.

Ancelotti also reflected on his personal experience in handling pressure, recalling his early days and not pointing to any of the prominent benches he has managed in his successful career.

"What I can say on a personal level is that where I felt the most pressure in my career was at the beginning, in Serie B in Italy. I struggled to handle the stress. I told my assistant that I wouldn't make it past the year 2000, and it's already 2024. Little by little, you get used to the pressure you have. Pressure is the fuel to do your job better," he noted.