On the eve of the Madrid derby, Real Madrid leads the league with only a one-point advantage over Atlético Madrid. In this high-stakes encounter, coach Carlo Ancelotti faced the press, addressing various topics, from tactical concerns to off-field controversies. Here’s a complete transcript of his responses.
What do you think about Ramos wearing the number 93 for Rayados?
I don’t know (laughs)! But he is a legend of this club. The fans who watched him play, as well as his former teammates, can only wish him the best. I am sure the Mexican people will appreciate him.
Do you understand how this whole week has fueled the atmosphere?
Your question confuses me because when you talk to me about social media, I come from the old generation—one that values the written word. Social media sometimes amplifies arguments and debates that, in my opinion, lack meaning. It’s something intangible. If Fernando Burgos criticizes me, that’s one thing. But social media? It’s faceless voices, people I don’t know. And I prefer not to know them. I like putting a face to my critics.
Is Rodrygo untouchable in your lineup?
He plays a very important role in the team, and he will continue to do so. He has tremendous qualities, just like many others in the squad. I don’t believe that achieving balance means removing attackers. That’s not my perspective.
What do you think of the RFEF president’s claim that Madrid makes “perverse” use of audio recordings?
I don’t know anything about that. We only requested the audios, nothing more. It’s like a play. It’s not about revealing a big secret. We just want to understand what happened—there’s nothing perverse about it.
How do you spend the hours leading up to such a big match?
It’s going to be a tough, complicated match. But these are the games we love to play. There will be a lot of pressure, but it will also be a great spectacle. We are talking about a highly competitive and fiercely contested match. These are nights to savor, and then… either celebrate or suffer.
Are the defenders too pessimistic this season?
Raúl is… Jacobo. They are working on it.
Does Real Madrid put pressure on referees, as Atlético claims?
I don’t know. Real Madrid simply wants to change a system it does not like.
Will you be able to convince your top players to contribute more defensively in these two upcoming games?
Yes, I am capable. And I will do it. But I repeat: this is a collective matter. Everyone together.
How would you assess Ceballos’ season?
He has become more important because he is always present, both in attack and defense. His physical condition has improved significantly, and that’s crucial. He understands the rhythm of the game very well.
What do you think about Atlético’s tweets?
Those who played in the Copa del Rey focused on recovery—gym sessions and pool work. The others trained with intensity. Today, we did a bit of tactical work, but not much, about 10 to 15 minutes. Tomorrow, we will watch videos and discuss tactics. That’s it. Tonight, some television, just to relax. That’s how we’ve prepared.
Is Valverde on the verge of burnout?
We are always concerned about injuries, of course, but Fede is crucial right now. He always wants to play, and given our current absences, he is indispensable. He can play as a pivot or as a right-back, giving Lucas some rest, for example, since Lucas had a minor issue.
How has Mbappé evolved?
I’ve said it many times: he arrived humbly, with no demands. He needed time, but he has adapted very well to the team, just as the team has adapted to him. The statistics speak for themselves. We cannot ask for more. We are very happy with him.
If your best players score so much, why do some people say they shouldn’t all play together?
I don’t know. Sometimes, we’ve lacked balance, that’s true. And some might think that removing one of the top players will solve the problem. But that’s not the case. Defensive issues are collective issues, and attackers also have responsibilities. Many people forget that we lost key players like Carvajal and Militão. Despite this, we are competing in every tournament. Rüdiger and Alaba will be back soon, but we must not forget how important those missing players are at this stage of the season. Hopefully, we’ll soon return to normal, with Tchouameni back as a pivot, Alaba as a central defender, Carvajal at full-back… But we must deal with the current emergency. The situation isn’t ideal, but we’re getting results.
Has the club received the audios yet?
No, not yet. I don’t know why they don’t want to hand them over.
Madrid has yet to beat a high-level opponent…
We need three points—nothing more. We are not thinking about anything else. Against strong opponents, we haven’t always been at our best, but tomorrow, we must win.
Should the team improve defensively?
A strong defense gives you stability. If you have that, then even if your top four attackers don’t score, you can still turn things around. Our front four have already scored around 60 goals this season—that’s a lot. But defensive solidity is not just about the four defenders. It’s a collective effort. Those at the top must contribute as well.
Tomorrow is when the collective commitment must be at its strongest?
There were doubts about Lucas and Camavinga’s availability, but those were resolved today. They are fit to play. I will field a starting eleven that offers both quality and commitment—these are the keys to success. We need to combine them. Perhaps this year, we have had more quality than commitment. We are working to fix that.
What do you think about the LaLiga president’s remark that someone in Madrid has “lost their mind”?
I don’t want to discuss this before such an important match. Tebas can rest assured—no one here has lost their mind. We only asked for an explanation. We want to change a system that, from what I hear, pleases no one. They say the system favors Madrid, yet when Madrid wants to change it, they oppose it?
What kind of match are you expecting?
It’s a crucial match for both teams. The derby is always special, especially against such a difficult opponent. It will be an intense, balanced match, fiercely contested. Nothing new. Atlético has the quality to challenge for the title.
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