Carlo Ancelotti stepped into the media zone this Friday ahead of the clash with Barcelona on LaLiga matchday 11. While he didn’t reveal the exact XI for Montjuïc, the Real Madrid coach noted Ferland Mendy carries an advantage in the race for a starting spot over Eduardo Camavinga, thanks to a lighter playing load that keeps him fresher after the late exit against Braga in the Champions League.
Live coverage of the Barcelona clash in the United States and Canada will spotlight Real Madrid as they chase a result that could reshape the early-season narrative. Ancelotti confirmed Jude Bellingham would take the field despite the soreness he endured in the previous European outing, declaring that the England star had recovered and would play, with the burden relieved and the player looking fit to contribute.
A full transcript of Ancelotti’s press briefing followed, shedding light on the team’s approach and the big questions ahead of the weekend. He addressed whether Barcelona’s current momentum, fueled by a crop of young talents amid a spate of injuries, could sway the balance for Real Madrid. The coach explained that if Madrid faced a similar run of injuries, a few debutants from the academy setup—Álvaro, Mario Martín, Nico Paz, Gonzalo, among others—would be close to stepping onto the stage.
On refereeing, Ancelotti praised Gil Manzano, calling him one of Europe’s most respected officials, and suggested his profile suits a high-stakes Clasico, with a calm, well-judged approach that could shape the game’s tempo.
Regarding Xavi’s preparations, the Madrid boss said he hadn’t fixated on Barça’s lineup changes and stressed that the focal point remains Bellingham’s availability. The objective, he claimed, is simple: Real Madrid must perform at their best while Barça fields eleven players.
When asked where Camavinga might best impact the game, Ancelotti pointed to the pivot role as Camavinga’s ideal fit, noting his versatility to operate as a defensive anchor, a deeper interior, or an advanced wide midfielder. The manager emphasized that the player’s quality shines through most when stationed in the pivot position.
The Madrid coach also praised Barça’s emerging talents, singling out Lamine and Fermín for leaving a strong impression while acknowledging that Madrid has homegrown prospects who offer a bright future, including Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Arda Güler, Camavinga, and Tchouaméni.
When the subject turned to Florentino Pérez’s absence, Ancelotti stated that all decisions are made in the club’s best interest, underscoring the leadership’s alignment with the team’s goals.
On the Clasico’s supposed favoritism, Ancelotti refused to name a clear favorite, suggesting that both teams arrive with momentum and that the match will be intense and competitive. He expressed hope that fans would enjoy a quality spectacle, as is customary in this fixture.
Reflecting on the season so far, Ancelotti noted the shift from a younger emphasis to a more balanced squad setup, with a period of experimentation in the first phase and a late-season rotation to keep players fresh. He stressed that the emphasis remains on performance and sustainability over any single match.
As for the lineup questions, the coach emphasized that each player, including those who may not start, remains professional and prepared. The idea is to maintain depth across the squad to ensure everyone can contribute meaningfully when called upon.
Regarding the stakes, Ancelotti framed the Clasico as a significant but not season-defining clash. While three points carry weight, the broader race remains a long one, with rivals like Girona and Atlético Madrid in the mix. He warned that the season would stay open and competitive until its conclusion.
On the specifics of the left-back position, Camavinga’s performance during his central or wing-back duties keeps options open. If Mendy rests after a heavy schedule in Europe, Madrid trusts the entire squad to deliver, with every player ready to contribute in a meaningful way.
As for Bellingham, the message was clear: he is ready to play. The coaching staff has lifted the load on him, and the player’s health and form point toward a significant role in the upcoming match. Ancelotti also highlighted that Clasicos carry a weight beyond the domestic setting, recognized globally as a premier clash that resonates well beyond Spain.
Source: Goal. Reported by Goal.