Real Madrid pressed forward with a clear goal: to advance from the group stage, push into the knockout rounds, and stay competitive until the final whistle of the Champions League campaign. The message from the bench was simple but resolute: compete with grit, lift the tempo, and play with the belief that, if they press relentlessly, a title can still be within reach. The club’s leadership has consistently framed the tournament as a special occasion, one that calls for an extraordinary level of commitment from the squad.
On Tuesday, Carlo Ancelotti spoke ahead of the team’s opener in the 2023/24 Champions League at the Bernabéu, facing Union Berlin of Germany. He emphasized that the Champions League always carries a unique aura for Real Madrid and that his squad would treat the match as a notable event. At home, they would confront a well-organized, robust opponent, and he underscored the need to inject intensity from the first whistle to set the tone for the campaign.
Regarding squad fitness, the coach confirmed that Dani Carvajal would miss the Berlin clash due to a muscle strain. He did not rule out a possible return for the derby against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano the following Sunday. The plan, as described by Ancelotti, involved a cautious approach with treatment and tests, but he reassured that the issue did not appear serious and that the player would be monitored closely before a potential return to action.
During the press interaction, Ancelotti was also asked about statements that appeared to question Madrid’s trajectory. He answered with a candid sense of humor, noting that the ultimate aim was to progress through the group stage, reach the round of 16, and go further. He added that expectations should not weigh down the team, and that they could reasonably set sights on a strong finish without feeling undue pressure. The manager made it clear that the plan is to compete for as long as possible, conveying a belief that the squad has the talent to reach the final.
Additionally, Ancelotti touched on the status of one of Europe’s most consistently formidable teams, Manchester City under Pep Guardiola. He highlighted City as a top favorite, acknowledging the squad’s continuity from last season and the idea that, in knockout football, surprises are a constant factor. Such comments reflected a broader respect for the competition and the quality that any opponent can bring when the stakes rise in the late stages.
Turning to individual players, Ancelotti defended Luka Modric, addressing questions about whether the veteran midfielder faced reduced recognition. He described Modric as performing well and maintaining a strong professional relationship with the team. He also hinted that, on the day of the match, Modric would likely contribute from the bench or step into action as needed, underscoring the manager’s readiness to rotate and keep the squad fresh while preserving leadership and experience on the field.
The return of Arda Güler, the Turkish talent who joined Real Madrid this summer, also drew attention. Ancelotti said the youngster was progressing well and would be back with the squad on Monday, approaching full readiness. The news added optimism about Madrid’s attacking options as the season advances and the team builds cohesion around its evolving roster.
Beyond the field, Ancelotti was asked for his thoughts on the ongoing tension between Spanish players and the national federation. He stated that he would not engage deeply with that topic, emphasizing a stance of respect toward the players and keeping remarks to a minimum. The focus, as always, remained on performance and team unity rather than external disputes.
As the matchday approached, the sense within the club was one of measured anticipation. The coaching staff prepared to balance experience with youth, ensured tactical clarity, and maintained a steady rhythm in training sessions. The squad’s aim remained straightforward: to maximize their chance of success by playing to their strengths, safeguarding discipline, and embracing the mental edge that comes with competing at the highest level of European football.
In this environment, the entire Real Madrid setup looked to build momentum across the sea of fixtures that define a demanding European campaign. The blend of seasoned performers and rising stars, guided by Ancelotti’s strategic approach, offered a pathway toward continuing Real Madrid’s storied legacy in the competition, while staying focused on the present challenge and the immediate next test on the horizon.