Seedorf: Rafa Benitez needs time at Real Madrid ... although sacking Ancelotti was probably an error

Clarence Seedorf has backed Rafa Benitez to stay as Real Madrid coach, saying he needs time - but also suggested sacking Carlo Ancelotti was a mistake.

Seedorf, who played more than 100 games for Madrid, also spent a large portion of his career under Ancelotti at Milan, and told Cadena COPE that Los Blancos may have erred in changing the trainer.

“Perhaps Ancelotti should have stayed, but it’s useless to talk about it,” the former Netherlands midfielder said, according to Marca.

“[Benitez] has reached two Champions League finals with a team of much less value. He has to have time and support.

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“When Madrid loses the Clasico it’s like a funeral. These defeats hurt but we must come together to overcome things.

“Football is a team sport and everyone is responsible. We have to be self-critical and look for solutions at home and not outside.

“Madrid have a very competitive team. It’s only a year-and-a-half since they won the Champions League. I believe strongly in this group.

Clarence Seedorf of Milan (AFP)

Image credit: AFP

“There’s a lot of quality and experience. If they raise their heads with pride they will fight for the League and remain favourites in the Champions League.

“Cristiano Ronaldo has to set an example with his comments, both inside and outside the locker room. The team leaders now have to appear and, with the coach and the president, move forward.”

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