The Italian coach appeared in the preview of the Liga Clasico at Camp Nou this Saturday. Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the press ahead of the upcoming match at Camp Nou, a game that could shape Real Madrid’s chances in the league and beyond.
In the lead-up to a clash that fans are eager to watch, Ancelotti reflected on the mood inside the team and what it will take to push for silverware this season. He emphasized focusing on the moment, extracting the best from every individual and the collective unit, and tightening defense and attack to aim for a positive result.
Words from Carlo Ancelotti
The Camp Nou experience. He said it’s about seizing the moment and squeezing maximum value from each player, both defensively and offensively, to shift the balance in their favor.
Contractual questions and future plans. He downplayed speculation about his future, noting that while he would happily stay at Real Madrid for life, decisions of that nature rest with the club. His affection for the team remains strong, and he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to train every day with the squad.
Unwritten rules and expectations. He joked that rules can change and that the team holds a belief in lifting a title, even if the formal criteria evolve over time.
LaLiga as a frame of reference. He stressed focusing on tomorrow’s match and not letting potential outcomes derail their focus, maintaining a steadfast belief in winning rather than dwelling on setbacks.
Dealing with scrutiny of Kroos and Modric. He defended the veteran midfielders, affirming their continued status as among the best in the game, even if they are subject to public doubt.
Possible titles on the horizon. He acknowledged that a Real Madrid–AC Milan final is within the realm of possibility for the Champions League, while noting that the team needs to close ground in LaLiga and the Copa del Rey if they hope to contend on multiple fronts.
Approach to Barcelona. He commented on the unpredictable nature of each match and the way Barcelona has managed the Copa del Rey by playing with a strong defensive posture when ahead, while recognizing that an early score can shift the game’s dynamics.
Approach to Real Madrid. He described an intent to play an aggressive, attacking style without exposing the team to undue risk.
Change in Barça’s style. He observed that Barcelona has become a solid, defensively organized unit, with a strong commitment to limiting goals, which shapes Madrid’s planning.
Draws and the away goals rule. He noted that last season the second leg at home helped Madrid, but he didn’t see away goals carrying extra weight this time and believed the Bernabéu could influence the tie in the first leg.
Vinícius and Rodrygo’s roles. He mentioned Vinícius Júnior’s continued quality against Barcelona and discussed options for his positioning to maximize impact, including the possibility of moving him to the right if needed.
Benzema and Vini on the right. He confirmed Benzema’s fitness and the plan for Vinícius to operate with greater mobility along the left, highlighting tactical flexibility in attack.
Fears about Barcelona. He urged viewing Barça as a lion rather than a cat, underscoring Madrid’s need to respond with courage and intensity.
Camavinga and Tchouaméni in the midfield. He praised their high-level performances and suggested a bright future for Real Madrid with these two players anchoring the lineup, alongside Casemiro from past eras as a benchmark of excellence.
Best team performance. He highlighted improvements since January, pointing to physical and technical data that show momentum, motivation, and tactical progress shaping a hopeful finish to the season.
Militao’s dominance. He lauded Militao as among the world’s top defenders, praising his speed, strength in one-on-one duels, and aerial ability, while light-heartedly noting Militao’s occasional lapses in focus and the humor of his looks.
Ancelotti press conference at Real Madrid today: video, where to watch live on TV, streaming and live online
All Real Madrid press conferences for the current season are streamed on Real Madrid TV and are accessible free via Digital Terrestrial Television. The Real Madrid channel is also available on major platforms and through the club’s official sites and social channels for viewers around the world, offering extended coverage and full-length sessions.
For global audiences, the club’s official site provides free access to press conference streams and accompanying footage. Additional content is distributed through the team’s official social accounts and video platforms, ensuring fans can follow the latest developments from any location.
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