Ancelotti takes the blame at Real Madrid after derby loss

"Atlético took the lead early on with a precise header from Álvaro Morata. Within twenty minutes, a goal from Antoine Griezmann made it 2-0. 'We didn't start well and we didn't defend well. When they were leading 2-0, they played the game they wanted. Atleti did better in that respect than we did.'"

"On Sunday evening, Real Madrid played with only one true forward in the form of Rodrygo. Ancelotti started with players like Joselu and Brahim Díaz on the bench. 'I think the system wasn't the issue, but rather the defensive vulnerability. We weren't compact and they capitalized on that.'"

"If the team doesn't do what it needs to, it's my responsibility," the Italian admitted guiltily. "I take it on, it's my fault."

Ancelotti has now suffered eight defeats against Atlético coach Diego Simeone across all competitions. Only against Luciano Spalletti (eleven) has he lost more matches in his entire managerial career.

Ironically, former Real Madrid striker Álvaro Morata played a starring role in the Madrid derby with two goals. "What I need is to feel important, and this year I feel more important than others," he said afterward on DAZN. "I hope we keep winning, because I really want to win a title with Atlético."

For Real Madrid, who recently clinched victories against Getafe (2-1) and Union Berlin (1-0) in the final moments, there's a swift opportunity to get back on track. On Wednesday, Los Blancos play at home against Las Palmas in La Liga. Next Saturday, last season's runner-up will visit the in-form Girona, coached by Daley Blind."