On the eve of the Clasico at the Bernabéu, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti appeared at a press conference.
How is the team doing before this special match?
“She is doing well, she is motivated. Clasicos are competitive, hard-fought, close matches. We want to do well in front of our supporters.”
Barça leaves spaces: “Barça have a very clear idea of the game, they do it very well. They are a very brave team. We have to prepare for the match and try to play our best.”
How's Bellingham? He still hasn't scored: “He's doing very well, he's progressing. He's had ankle and shoulder problems, but his physical condition is good. He contributes to the team through his work which is very important for us.”
What will be the key to the match? Barça scares you? “They are having a very good start to the season. It's difficult to choose a favorite in these matches, like in derbies. Fortunately, no one is stopping me from sleeping at the moment.”
What is Mbappé missing to be at the top?
“We are satisfied with him, he has scored goals. He is important for the team and he was very present in the two goals against Dortmund. We are in no hurry, not me, nor him nor the squad. Obviously he will improve because he has all the qualities to do so.”
Who is the favorite? “I don't know. It depends on the dynamics of the match. It's difficult to choose a favorite beforehand. It depends on how you are able to handle the pressure, the moments of the match…”
Are you satisfied with the Bellingham version? Should he score goals? “Last year, he was instrumental in scoring goals but we had just lost an important striker like Benzema. We needed his goals, those of Brahim, of Joselu. This year, we have someone capable of score 35-40 goals (editor’s note: Mbappé).”
The longevity of Modric and Lewandowski : “Seriousness, professionalism and the passion they have for playing football. There is no secret.”
Are you going to change something like in Vigo? “I'm thinking about something but it doesn't seem right to explain it to you today (laughs). You'll see tomorrow and then be able to tell me if I was wrong or not.”
What will the speech be tomorrow? “There is no need to talk a lot in these matches. You need a clear, very simple game plan and that's it. The players have the motivation. When I played these matches, I was someone preoccupied and Van Basten said to me: “Talk. The strategy is very simple. Give me the ball and run to celebrate the goal with me. And it often worked (laughs).”
How to stop Lamine Yamal? “He started his career spectacularly. I really like his way of playing, his attitude. He's a very dangerous player but we shouldn't concentrate on just one player. We respect Barça a lot.”
The reviews: “They don't bother me. I understand very well. I want to be the first to clarify my ideas and then explain it well to the players. Often, I also like to know what the players think.”
Barça will defend high, do you think? “We are preparing to have a good match with and without the ball. We must be able to manage the attack also if they move back.”
Are you going to advise Mbappé for his first Clasico? “No, nothing special. He knows these matches very well, he has experience and played a lot against Barça. I feel he is very calm, simple. He has confidence in his qualities and I think he will bring to the team tomorrow.”
How to explain this change from Barça? “They changed a little philosophy. A more direct game. I don't want to compare with Xavi who did a great job.”
Who is the leader of the team? “There is not just one. Vinicius can be, like Valverde or Modric.”
