Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed the press on Monday to discuss the highly anticipated Champions League Matchday 6 clash against Atalanta Bergamo. While many Madrid fans remain optimistic about this crucial encounter, the 64-year-old coach has given reasons for concern.
Following their defeat to Liverpool on 27 November, Real Madrid face yet another formidable opponent in the Champions League. On Tuesday, Atalanta Bergamo’s Gewiss Stadium will host Carlo Ancelotti and his men. For this crucial fixture, as the Madrid side battles for a place in the reformed UEFA competition’s Round of 16, the challenge appears daunting. Indeed, since late September, Atalanta, led by Ademola Lookman, have remained unbeaten.
Carlo Ancelotti expects the toughest match of 2024
Currently topping the Italian league with 34 points, Atalanta are also fifth in the Champions League standings with 11 points (five more than Real Madrid). As Papu Gomez recently pointed out, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side has become significantly stronger and more defensively robust, making them a genuine threat to Madrid. In Monday’s pre-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti did little to ease fears. “Tomorrow’s match could be our toughest of 2024,” the 64-year-old coach stated.
Carlo Ancelotti also confirmed the Italian side’s improved strength compared to their last meeting, the UEFA Super Cup final earlier this season. “Atalanta are better now than when we played against them in August. They are highly competitive,” added the Real Madrid manager. He further acknowledged that fighting for an elite position is no longer realistic: “We know it’s hard to be among the top eight. We may have to face playoffs. Tomorrow’s three points are crucial.”
Ancelotti banking on Mbappé
Given that Real Madrid have lost all their games against major teams this season (except Dortmund), Ancelotti’s remarks hardly inspire confidence. With a squad depleted by injuries, the Madrid coach hopes Kylian Mbappé will be in top form to carry the team.
“Kylian Mbappé? Today could have been the first press conference without questions about Mbappé, but you managed to ask (laughs). Mbappé is doing well; he’s making progress. I give him the confidence he needs. He has been good in the last two matches. He’s more active. His performance tomorrow could be crucial for us,” Ancelotti said. He also left doubts about his attacking line-up, saying, “The only question is about the availability of Vinicius and Rodrygo. We’ll decide after tonight’s training session.”
All eyes will be on the Gewiss Stadium for this Champions League spectacle. Fans hope Real Madrid can emerge victorious and turn their otherwise shaky season around.
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