Carlo Ancelotti was present at the pre-Clásico press conference, which will face Barcelona this Sunday at the Santiago Bernabéu (16:15). The Italian coach started by analyzing the size of his first duel of the season against azulgrana: “I didn’t put any video of last year for the players because they know their opponent well because last year’s game won’t affect him because this is another season and another game… This is his first classic, We are excited to play a game that everyone will see. This isn’t a life or death game because it’s coming soon. It’s special, but the season is so long.”
no invention
When asked about a precedent last year where he tried Modric as a fake 9 and was beaten by Xavi’s men, Carletto replied with his usual spontaneity: “I don’t want to invent because I never invented it. There’s nothing in football to invent because it’s all invented a long time ago. was done. Last year I tried to make an invention against Barça and they gave me a stick. I want a team that is clear on what to do on the pitch at every moment of the game. They are a top opponent and we have to attack well and defend well. It’s the only way to win games and championships.”
As for the moment of play that resulted from Barça’s draw with Inter and almost being eliminated from the Champions League, the Italian doesn’t believe in the hole he lived in: “A team that has done a great job in the league from the beginning. They were dazzling. I don’t know how Wednesday’s Inter match affected him. We played differently from Inter, but it was Inter’s courage in the match and they were very effective. I don’t think it will help us as it is a different party. Barcelona is a team with the resources to have a great season.”
Asked about the style of Barça’s play against a more pragmatic Real Madrid, Ancelotti once again insisted on understanding the game: It is the idea of football that brings them success. Other clubs have a different opinion. I don’t think it’s very convenient for me to have only one style because sometimes the players change. and the most important thing is that the player is comfortable with the way he plays”.
Finally, the manager dismissed Courtois as “pretty good, but not comfortable and had little training. He’s eliminated for this match”, adding that he “sees Benzema better this week because his physical condition has improved”. lots”.