Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti faced the media ahead of a pivotal clash with Girona, the pace-setters in La Liga. The Italian manager spoke frankly about a contentious controversy centered on allegations linked to the Negreira case, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and his wish for timely and just resolution. He reminded the room that football has long thrived on integrity and fair play, and he hoped that justice would run its course without prejudice. The veteran tactician underscored his belief that solutions can be found through calm, measured processes rather than sensationalism, and he urged everyone connected with the sport to keep their focus on the competition and its proper governance.
During the press conference, Ancelotti also addressed reactions from other clubs and figures in Spanish football who have weighed in on the scenario. He noted that certain statements have sparked debate about refereeing, credibility, and transparency within the game. While expressing respect for colleagues, he cautioned against rushing to conclusions and stressed the importance of relying on official investigations to determine facts. The Real Madrid boss conveyed that the club would not waver in its commitment to competitive excellence while remaining steadfast in its adherence to the rules that govern the sport.
Four years without beating Girona
The Catalan side remains undefeated in league play this season, a fact that has made Madrid acknowledge their opponent as a formidable and organized unit. Girona can be daunting to face given their recent performances and their capacity to disrupt expectations. The last encounter with Madrid saw Girona secure a 4-2 victory, a result that still lingers in the minds of Real Madrid players and staff. Since January 2019, defeats against Girona have been rare for Madrid, a history the team is determined to break as they prepare for the upcoming challenge.
Ancelotti used the moment to reflect on the congested calendar and the way international duties impact club football. He pointed out that Girona has leveraged the season’s early fixtures to build momentum and confidence, qualities that Madrid must respect. The manager highlighted the implications of a jam-packed schedule, including the injuries and fatigue that can accumulate during busy periods. He noted that some players are nearing a return from international duty, and discussions with the squad will continue as the team looks ahead to upcoming games in the week. The plan is to meet in Seville after the short break, with travel logistics and timing taken into account to minimize disruption and maximize recovery time for the squad.
Vinicius and the lack of goals
On the topic of Vinicius Junior, Ancelotti clarified that there was no merit to lingering misgivings or unnecessary risk. He described his instruction to the winger as a measure to protect the player while ensuring the team retained its aggressive, attacking intent. Vinicius has shown resilience and progress, and the coach reiterated that a full 90-minute run would be the aim if fitness and match conditions permit. The broader message was one of controlled confidence rather than alarm, a signal that the squad is prepared to lean on its depth as the season progresses.
Regarding the team’s goal tally, the manager acknowledged that Rodrygo has yet to hit the predicted numbers for this campaign. He emphasized that the forward remains a valuable contributor to Madrid’s overall gameplay, even when the goals do not immediately appear on the scoresheet. The suggestion of a planned rest was framed as a strategic option to refresh the squad and sustain performance levels across a demanding slate of fixtures. The overarching theme was balance and patience, with an eye on returning to the ruthless efficiency that Madrid aims to display in front of goal.