Real Madrid Ancelotti faces the media after Xabi Alonso's announcement and responds about Rodrygo and Güler.
The Italian coach didn't want to confirm the starting position of the Turkish or the Brazilian and also talked about his replacement on the bench
Carlo Ancelotti has spoken ahead of one of the most important matches of the year. Real Madrid visits Barcelona in Montjuïc with LaLiga at stake. Los Blancos are 4 points behind the lead and must win to tighten the championship.
"The team is well, focused, and excited. We have a lot at stake and trust we can win," the coach assured. Regarding the match plan, he was clear: "Barça puts you in your area, but no team is perfect. We have to defend well, attack well, and play a complete match."
When asked about motivation after the Champions elimination, he replied: "It's not difficult to motivate. These types of matches prepare themselves. Soccer always gives you the opportunity to react."
Regarding his 350th match as Real Madrid's coach, he commented: "I don't remember them all. Some were good, others are better forgotten. But the honeymoon with this club doesn't end. Real Madrid will be in my heart until the last day of my life."
He also congratulated PSG and Inter for reaching the Champions final: "It's going to be a beautiful and balanced final, with no clear favorite."
Rodrygo, Arda, Xabi Alonso, and set pieces
Ancelotti confirmed that Rodrygo is ready to return to the line-up. "He has trained well and is available. Rodrygo is an option, like Arda. We don't have many alternatives, but all the called-up players can be starters."
Regarding Xabi Alonso's announcement, he was blunt: "I read that he's leaving Leverkusen. He has done an unbelievable job and has the doors open. He has proven he's one of the best in the world."
He also spoke about key tactical aspects, such as set pieces: "Over the last two years, we've done well in that aspect. In the Cup, with Arda, Modric, and Tchouameni. We're missing Rüdiger, but set pieces will be important tomorrow. We have to be alert to offside and transitions. We've worked on it in training. If they listen to me, it will go well."
Finally, he confirmed that Vallejo and Jacobo are ready as replacements for the center-backs. Everything points to a great tactical battle in Montjuïc.
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