Carlo Ancelotti was present at the pre-Classic press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s clash with Barcelona this Sunday at the Santiago Bernabéu, scheduled for 16:15 local time. The Italian manager began by assessing the magnitude of this season’s opener against their fiercest rivals. He noted that no video from last season would be shown to the players because they know the opponent well. This is a new campaign with new challenges, and the upcoming match is highly anticipated by everyone involved. Although it is a significant event, the season remains lengthy, making this game one moment in a long journey.
no invention
When asked about a past moment where he experimented with Luka Modrić as a false nine and was defeated by Xavi’s team, Ancelotti spoke with his characteristic spontaneity. He explained that there is no need to invent anything in football because ideas are already established. He recalled that last year an attempt to surprise Barça did not work and that a clear plan is essential. The focus for his team is to play with clarity at every moment, to strike offensively and defend with organization. A top opponent requires a disciplined approach, and the pathway to victories in both league play and the season ahead lies in well-executed attacking moves paired with solid defense.
Regarding Barça’s performance in the recent league draw with Inter and their near-elimination in the Champions League, the Italian coach did not view it as a collapse. He acknowledged that Barça had been doing excellent work in the league from the start, and while the midweek match with Inter showed courage and effectiveness, that result is not a direct predictor of the upcoming duel. He stressed that Real Madrid and Barça operate differently, and the key is recognizing that the match will unfold on its own terms. He also highlighted that Barcelona possesses the resources to have a strong season ahead.
– Real Madrid CF
Asked about the overall style Barcelona employs against a more pragmatic Real Madrid, Ancelotti emphasized understanding the game as a core principle. The belief is that football effectiveness comes from the team’s ideas rather than from rigid adherence to a single style. He noted that other clubs may have different viewpoints, and the best approach is for players to feel comfortable with their roles and how they contribute to the collective effort.
Finally, the coach provided updates on key players. He described Courtois as performing well but not fully comfortable, with limited training time ahead of the match. The goalkeeper will miss the fixture, while Karim Benzema showed signs of improvement in his physical condition as the week progressed. The emphasis remains on readiness, resilience, and maintaining high standards across the squad as the team gears up for a demanding test against a formidable rival.