On the eve of Real Madrid’s clash with Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final, Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the press about the major issues surrounding the club. Between the controversy with Javier Tebas, the development of young talents such as Arda Güler and Endrick, the state of fitness of certain key players and the future of emblematic players such as Luka Modric, the Madrid coach was frank in his answers. He also addressed the dental problem of Kylian Mbappé, who did not take part in the last training session but will travel with the team.
On Mbappé’s absence from training: concern or just a precaution?
‘Mbappé is travelling with us. He had a dental problem that prevented him from training today, but that doesn’t mean he’s out. All the players called up have a chance of playing tomorrow, including Endrick.’
Response to criticism from Javier Tebas
‘Tebas talks too much about Real Madrid. Since I’ve been here, he’s been making constant comments about us. It’s disrespectful towards millions of Madridistas. There are far more important things he should be focusing on, not least the real problems in Spanish football.’
On Arda Güler’s patience
‘I see Arda every day. He works hard, learns and wants to play. I don’t want to see a player happy if he’s not playing. It’s normal to be frustrated, but that’s part of his development. He has to understand that he’s going through a process of integration, just as Rodrygo, Vinícius and Valverde did before him.
Is Endrick a future Vinícius Jr?
‘No, Endrick has a different profile. He won’t be Vinícius or Rodrygo. He has his own characteristics and I have no doubt that he will become a great striker. But there’s no ‘Endrick affair’ at the moment, he’s a player in full progress.’
An overloaded calendar that weighs on the players
‘The fixture list is absurd. We’ve played 17 games in 50 days. It’s unbelievable. I’m feeling the fatigue myself, so imagine the players. We need rest and better conditions to maintain the quality of football.
The Negreira affair and its repercussions on Spanish football
‘I can’t answer that question. There are proceedings underway and we have to wait for the court’s decision. Football has shown patience and we have to continue like this.
On Mbappé’s impact in the dressing room
‘Since his arrival, he has shown humility. He has integrated with a low profile and gained the trust of the group. The atmosphere is excellent, but we’ve lost key players like Nacho, Kroos and Carvajal, who had a huge influence. Now youngsters like Camavinga, Tchouaméni, Valverde, Vinícius and Rodrygo have to pick up the slack.
On Asencio’s alleged ‘technical weakness
‘If I said that, it was a mistake. He’s young and learning a lot. We’ve been working with him, not on technique, but on the tactical aspect and aggression in certain situations. He’s making good progress and Raúl has been a nice surprise for everyone, including me.
On David Alaba’s situation following his injury
‘He played 70 minutes against Girona and his knee has fully recovered. But after 14 months out, we also need to keep an eye on his muscles and avoid any risk of a relapse.’
Luka Modric’s future: extension or departure?
‘I can’t comment on that. It’s a decision for the club and the player, as was the case with Nacho, Kroos and Modric himself. What is certain is that a legend like him has the right to choose his future.’
Valverde at right-back? An option for Ancelotti
‘Yes, it’s a possibility. I’ve already thought about different options for this game, and Valverde could be used in that position.’
On criticism of him and his seniority in football
‘Experience is what makes the difference. After 40 years in football, I think I’ve acquired some knowledge. Some people get tired of seeing me every day, but I still have the enthusiasm of a child.
Is the Güler affair an internal problem?
‘There is no ‘Güler affair’. He’s following a normal process, like Vinícius, Rodrygo or Valverde in their early days. Anyone who has any doubts can come and see me directly in my office.
Carlo Ancelotti addressed all the issues with his usual frankness. Although Mbappé’s absence from training raised questions, the French striker will indeed be travelling to San Sebastián, raising hopes that he will take part in the match. At the same time, the Madrid coach defended his players, criticised the overloaded fixture list and responded firmly to Javier Tebas’ comments. Now it’s down to the pitch: the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad promises to be intense and decisive for the rest of the Mer’s season.
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