Zidane or Ancelotti: Who has the best record against Barcelona?
The rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona is a defining feature of football. Known as “El Clásico,” these matches capture the attention of fans worldwide and showcase two of the most prestigious clubs in history. The managers of Real Madrid during these encounters—Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane—are icons in their own right, each bringing their unique style to the dugout. However, when it comes to clashes against Barcelona, who has the better record? Let’s explore the performances of these two legendary figures and determine who has been the more successful strategist against Barça.The Importance of El Clásico
The El Clásico has always been more than just a match; it’s a cultural event. The fierce rivalry between Madrid and Barcelona stretches far beyond the pitch, symbolizing political, social, and sporting tensions. For the managers of Real Madrid, these encounters are an opportunity to prove their tactical brilliance and cement their legacy. Ancelotti and Zidane have each had their share of high-stakes meetings with Barcelona, and the results have been tellingCarlo Ancelotti’s Mixed Record Against Barcelona
Carlo Ancelotti has been in charge of Real Madrid on two separate occasions, and throughout both stints, he has had his fair share of Clásico encounters. Unfortunately for the Italian, his record against Barcelona is far from flawless. Over 18 official meetings, Ancelotti has secured 9 victories, but he has also experienced 9 losses. There have been no draws under his stewardship, a stark contrast to Zidane’s more consistent results.
Ancelotti’s teams have scored 34 goals in these fixtures but have conceded 37, reflecting a high-scoring but often defensive-lacking nature in these games. While there have been notable victories, like the 3-1 win in La Liga during the 2021-2022 season, there have also been significant defeats. The 5-2 loss in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup, for example, raised doubts about Ancelotti’s ability to cope with Barcelona’s tactical discipline. His 50% win rate in Clásicos, earning only 27 out of a possible 54 points, suggests a sense of inconsistency in the high-pressuregames.
Zinedine Zidane’s Impressive Efficiency Against Barcelona
In contrast to Ancelotti, Zinedine Zidane’s record against Barcelona stands out as significantly stronger. Over the course of 11 official meetings, Zidane has led Real Madrid to 6 wins, 3 draws, and only 2 losses. With 19 goals scored and just 13 conceded, Zidane’s approach to El Clásico has been far more balanced. His teams have not only been efficient in attack but also in minimizing defensive mistakes.
Zidane’s efficiency rate against Barcelona is an impressive 63%, having earned 21 points from a possible 33. His successes, such as the 2-0 win at Camp Nou in 2020, showcase his ability to navigate the high-pressure nature of these matches. Even during the peak of Barcelona’s dominance under Lionel Messi, Zidane managed to neutralize their offensive threats and often came out on top, demonstrating his tactical intelligence and composure under fire.Iconic Clásicos Under Ancelotti and Zidane
Both managers have overseen memorable moments in the Clásico, each leaving their own stamp on the rivalry. Ancelotti’s highlight came in the 2014 Copa del Rey final when Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 in an exciting match, with Gareth Bale’s famous solo goal becoming the defining moment. That victory remains one of the most celebrated moments of his tenure.
For Zidane, his first Clásico as Real Madrid coach in 2016 was a defining moment. A 2-1 victory at Camp Nou in his debut season was a statement win, and it propelled his reputation as a top-tier manager. Zidane’s ability to manage big moments was evident, as he led Real Madrid through several high-stakes Clásicos, particularly during the period when Barcelona dominated domestically.
Tactical Contrasts Between Ancelotti and Zidane
One of the primary differences between Ancelotti and Zidane lies in their tactical approach. Ancelotti is known forhis pragmatic style, often adjusting his tactics based on the opposition. While this has worked for him in many scenarios, it has not always yielded favorable results against Barcelona, especially in high-intensity matches. His defensive schemes have sometimes been found wanting, particularly when Barcelona’s attacking players are firing on all cylinders.
In contrast, Zidane’s tactics were often more balanced, mixing defensive solidity with quick, effective counter-attacks. He relied heavily on key players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema to make the difference in these games, and they often delivered when it mattered most. Zidane’s calm demeanor and strategic intelligence meant his team often performed under pressure, making him more successful in El Clásicos than Ancelotti.
Zidane’s Ability to Manage Key Moments
Zidane’s ability to thrive in crucial moments has been a defining feature of his managerial career. His Real Madrid teams always seemed to rise to the occasion in big matches, particularly against BarcelonaWhether it was his ability to keep composure or adapt tactics on the fly, Zidane showed time and time again that he could handle the pressure of El Clásico, earning him a reputation as a manager who could deliver when it mattered most.
This ability to manage key moments was evident during Zidane’s victory at Camp Nou in 2020. In a match that saw both teams jostling for control of La Liga, Zidane’s tactical approach nullified Barcelona’s attacking threats, and Real Madrid came out on top. This victory was not only important for the team’s title aspirations but also reaffirmed Zidane’s pedigree in managing high-stakes encounters.
Why Zidane Outshines Ancelotti in El Clásico
Zidane’s superior record against Barcelona is no accident. His ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations, coupled with his tactical adaptability, gives him the edge over Ancelotti. Zidane was able to mix defensive organization with rapid counter-attacks, neutralizing Barcelona’s famed attacking power while exploiting their defensive weaknesses. His star players, particularly Cristiano Ronaldo, often delivered in the big moments, and Zidane’s ability to keep them motivated was key to his success.
Ancelotti, while a brilliant tactician in his own right, has struggled to consistently match the intensity and precision required in El Clásicos. His more pragmatic approach has often been found wanting against a Barcelona side that is both tactically disciplined and offensively potent. Zidane’s ability to deliver under pressure, especially against Barcelona, is why his record in these encounters stands out.
Ancelotti’s Struggles Against Barcelona in Recent Seasons
Carlo Ancelotti’s recent struggles against Barcelona have raised questions about his ability to manage the big matches. The crushing 5-2 loss in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup served as a reminder of the tactical deficiencies that have sometimes plagued his tenure. This defeat not only highlighted weaknesses in his defensive setup but also showcased a lack of coordination in dealing with Barcelona’s attacking force.
The defeat has placed Ancelotti under pressure, and while he remains a highly respected manager, his record against Barcelona has often been criticized for its inconsistency. While he has managed to secure important wins, these have been overshadowed by heavy losses, leading to a more mixed perception of his ability to handle El Clásico.
The Pressure on Ancelotti Moving Forward
The 5-2 loss to Barcelona has intensified the pressure on Carlo Ancelotti. While his overall record with Real Madrid remains solid, his performance in El Clásico has been far from stellar. The Italian manager must now regroup, both tactically and mentally, to ensure that Real Madrid can challenge Barcelona in future encounters.
Ancelotti’s experience and tactical acumen are undeniable, but with rumors circulating about a potential departure, the upcoming Clásicos will be crucial. If Ancelotti fails to improve his record against Barcelona, he could find himself facing growing scrutiny from both fans and the club hierarchy.
What’s Next for Zidane?
For Zidane, the future remains bright. His tactical intelligence and ability to manage big moments have earned him respect not only at Real Madrid but in the wider footballing world. His success against Barcelona serves as a testament to his managerial prowess, and should he ever return to the Real Madrid dugout, he will undoubtedly be welcomed with open arms by the fans.
Conclusion: Zidane’s Superior Record Against Barcelona
In the debate between Ancelotti and Zidane, the latter emerges with the superior record in El Clásico. Zidane’s ability to manage high-pressure situations, coupled with his tactical adaptability and star power, has made him the more successful manager in these encounters. While Ancelotti has had his momentshis inconsistent record against Barcelona has left questions about his ability to perform in the most critical of matches.
As Real Madrid looks ahead to future Clásicos, it’s clear that Zidane’s legacy in these encounters remains unchallenged. Whether as a manager or a player, he has proven time and again that he knows how to rise to the occasion against Barcelona.