Real Madrid Manager Carlo Ancelotti, in his press conference before the Champions League playoff match against Manchester Cityoffered insightful comments about different aspects of the upcoming tie.
He started by praising Pep Guardiolasays: “I still think City has the best coach in this competition right now… Guardiola is a coach who has always tried to introduce something new to his team in attack, in possession, when he pushes, in building from behind … He has been and continues to be an innovator in football. “
Ancelotti recognized the enormous challenge of preparing for a match against Guardiola’s Manchester City and said: “It’s a nightmare to prepare for the game because (Guardiola) Always have ideas that make you think.“
He also described the upcoming match as a classic, given their latest history and commented: “It seems like a classic, because we have been playing in this competition for many years. I think it will be entertaining and even as the previous ones. ” He added that the winner of this tie has historically won the Champions League.
Vinicius jr.s form and ballon d’or controversy
Ancelotti strongly defended Vinicius Jr.’s latest performances despite some criticism and says: “His season has been very good, Given that he has had two injuries that have not allowed him much continuity.“
He added when it comes to his player’s current form: “I don’t see him worried, I see him well. If he is not 100%he is very close. During the second half against Atlético, he made the difference. I see him very close to his best level, and he can reach it tomorrow without any problems. ”
He also defended Real Madrid’s decision to boycot Ballon d’Or ceremony and stated: “It was not a wrong decision. This does not mean that we do not respect Rodri. But we thought, and I thought, Rodri deserved to win that year before. “
As for Jesús Vallejo’s exclusion from the squad: “It’s nothing. The problem is that his contract ends and we prefer to provide more opportunities for young people. “
Finally, Ancelotti showed confidence and acceptance of potential criticism about Real Madrid would be eliminated, with task: “When I go into a knockout grinder, there is a risk that it will not go well, and the risk increases when you will meet one of the best teams and one of the best coaches.”
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