Real Madrid president Florentino called Ancelotti to offer support

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez called coach Carlo Ancelotti to assure him of the board's support last week.

Ahead of last night's 5-0 thumping of Rayo Vallecana, Perez made contact with Ancelotti to give him a vote of confidence.

"We believe in you", Florentino insisted. Ancelotti, who is a thick-skinned character, nevertheless expressed his gratitude to the 'Los Blancos' supremo for his support, particularly as it comes at a time when the club is firmly under the media microscope, reports Marca.