Real Madrid and Barcelona will square off tomorrow at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first El Clasico of the 2024/25 season.
With Barcelona already having a three-point gap at the top of the standings, Real Madrid know that they cannot afford a slip-up, especially with mounting criticism towards manager Carlo Ancelotti this season.
The Italian tactician appeared in front of the media earlier today for his customary pre-match press conference and discussed a variety of topics.
On the match
Kicking things off, the Real Madrid manager gave an insight into the team’s morale heading into the crucial encounter, saying:
“The team is well, motivated. The Clasicos are competitive and hard-fought matches, but also entertaining. We want to do well in front of our fans.”
Talking about the opposition, he added: “Barça have a very clear idea of the game, they are playing very well. They are a very brave team. We have to prepare well for the game and try to play as well as possible.”
On whether he is ‘scared’ of facing this in-form Barcelona outfit, Ancelotti remarked: “They’re doing very well. In a game like the Clasico, it’s very difficult to pick a favourite. No one is keeping me awake at the moment.
When asked who was the favourite going into the Clasico, the Real Madrid boss said: “I don’t know. It depends on the dynamics of the match. It’s difficult to pick a favourite beforehand. It’s a problem of how you are able to handle the pressure, the moments of the match….”
When quizzed about any tactical changes he might be planning like he did against Celta Vigo, Ancelotti played coy and did not give anything away, saying:
“I have something in mind, I don’t think it’s right to explain it to you today (smiles). You have to see it tomorrow and then say if I’ve made a mistake or not.”
Regarding the changes that Barcelona have undergone since Hansi Flick took over from Xavi as manager, he said:
“He has changed the philosophy a little bit, he plays in a different way, much more direct. I don’t want to compare the job because Xavi did a great job at Barça in his own way. It’s a different Barcelona that we respect just as much as Xavi’s Barcelona.”
On being asked if he thinks Barcelona will defend with a high line and whether he plans to exploit it, the Real Madrid head coach replied:
“We prepare the game to do things well with and without the ball. You have to be able to handle the attack if they lower the line. You have to play a complete game to win and we will try to do that.”
About the criticism that has come his and the team’s way this season, Ancelotti said: “Criticism doesn’t bother me, I understand it very well, it’s also there when you do well. I want to clarify my ideas first and then explain them to the players.
“I often like to know what the players think about the right strategy for each game.”
On individuals and team form
One of the big concerns for Real Madrid has been the lack of goals from star midfielder Jude Bellingham. Discussing his situation, Ancelotti said:
“He’s doing very well, he’s progressing, he’s had problems with his ankle and shoulder, but his condition is good. He is contributing with work, which is very important for us.”
On whether he is happy with this version of Bellingham or needs him to score more regularly, Ancelotti said:
“Last year it was crucial that he scored goals because we had lost an important striker like Benzema. We don’t have that problem this year because we have a player who can score 45 goals.”
Talking about Real Madrid’s marquee summer signing Kylian Mbappe and when fans can see him at his devastating best, the Italian replied:
“We’re satisfied, because he’s scored goals. He’s important for the team, against Dortmund he was very present for both goals.
“We’re in no hurry, neither me, nor the squad, nor him. Obviously, he’s going to do better because he has all the qualities to do better.”
On how the Frenchman’s mindset is heading into his first El Clasico, Ancelotti replied: “His way of preparing for the game is very calm and very simple. He’s very confident in his qualities and I think he’s going to contribute to the team tomorrow.”
Praising the veteran duo of Luka Modric and Robert Lewandowski, the Real Madrid boss said: “The seriousness, professionalism and passion they have for playing football. There is no secret in this longevity and seniority.”
On whether he has any advice for the 25-year-old superstar, Ancelotti said: “Nothing special. He knows perfectly well, because he has experience and has played many times against Barcelona, what he has to do.”
Ancelotti also spoke very highly of Vinicius Jr., explaining what it meant for him to work with a player like the Brazilian, saying:
“It means coaching one of the best in the world, a kid who is still very humble, he has progressed a lot. I believe without a doubt that he will be the next Ballon d’Or.”
On whether the attacking superstar is the leader of the team, the Italian said: “There is not just one, there are many. Vinicius can be a leader, as can Valverde or Modric. The young players can show with their attitude and commitment that they are leaders.”
There was also a lot of praise for Barcelona teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, as Ancelotti remarked:
“He’s had a spectacular start to his career. I really like the way he plays, his attitude. He’s a very dangerous player, but you have to be focused on what you want to do. We respect Barça a lot, because they are doing very well.”
Source: AS