Del Bosque: Coaching Real Madrid is Easier Than Other Clubs

Vicente del Bosque, a true icon of Real Madrid, reflects on his storied career with the club in a recent interview. Known for his humility and dedication, del Bosque first made his mark in the Spanish capital as a player. An offensive midfielder, he was initially loaned out to gain experience before securing a permanent spot in the first team for the 1973-1974 season. Over an impressive eleven-year tenure, he contributed significantly to the club’s success.

Transitioning from player to manager, del Bosque began his coaching journey with Madrid’s youth teams. His first brief stint as head coach of the senior team came in 1994, followed by another short-term appointment in 1996. However, it was his final tenure starting in 1999 that solidified his legacy, leading the team for four seasons and capturing seven major titles, including two Champions League trophies in 2000 and 2002.

Del Bosque’s Insights on Coaching

In a candid discussion with AS, del Bosque shared his unique perspective on coaching at Real Madrid. He stated that managing the club is “easier than at other teams,” attributing this to the depth of talent available. “The key challenge for today’s coach is to effectively manage the entire squad while navigating a demanding schedule,” he explained. As he approaches his 75th birthday, del Bosque emphasizes that understanding how to utilize players wisely is paramount.

A Glimpse into His Legacy

Reflecting on his time at Real Madrid, del Bosque reminisced about the remarkable European campaigns of 1998, 2000, and 2002. “We had an incredible time. Madrid achieved something extraordinary,” he remarked. When asked to name some of the best players he worked with, he highlighted legends from different eras: “I would choose Pirri and Amancio from my own time, along with Raúl, Fernando Hierro, Zidane, or Ronaldo. They were all exceptional,” he noted.

As Real Madrid navigates its current season under Carlo Ancelotti‘s guidance, del Bosque’s insights into squad management and player utilization remain relevant. With a roster featuring stars like Luka Modrić and Kylian Mbappé, the challenge of maintaining balance and performance continues to be crucial for success.