Fernando Callas
MADRID (Reuters) – Real Madrid are going through a transition period, coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Wednesday, adding that a large part of his job this season will be managing the expectations of his players. rice field.
After Casemiro moved to Manchester United and midfield stars such as Luka Modric (37) and Toni Kroos (33) entered the final stages of their careers, Ancelotti won LaLiga and the Champions League last season. Alliance confusing lineup compared to.
But the Italian has a dilemma of choice before he faces rivals Atletico Madrid in Real’s Copa del Rey quarter-finals on Thursday.
He could bring in Modric and Kroos or continue to trust Dani Ceballos and Eduardo Camavinga, who played in recent LaLiga victories against Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal, to help Real keep their distance from leaders Barcelona. I’m helping
“We are going through a transition period with the first team and everyone needs to understand that,” Ancelotti said at Wednesday’s press conference.
“The understanding of the veterans and the perseverance of the youngsters. This mentality was essential to maintain a good atmosphere in the changing room last season, as everyone knew it was best for the team.”
Ancelotti argued that this unity was key to winning the silverware this season for Real, but said it would not be easy to overcome a revived Atlético.
“We have a special match on Thursday against a special opponent. It’s an important opportunity and we want to win the title,” said the coach.
“Atletico are great rivals and it’s always difficult to beat them. All I can say is that this is not just another game… No, it will be special and interesting.”
Atlético coach Diego Simeone responded with praise, but with all his players in good shape except for injured midfielder Marcos Llorente, the attack is stronger than before the World Cup was suspended. said it would.
“Since returning from the World Cup, the team has improved, we have more attacking options to create danger and we are performing very well as a group,” Simeone said.
“I see the group committed with enthusiasm and we have an important game, a very strong team, a coach I admire very much, Real Madrid, on the field and in their game. I’m going to play matches with everyone I represent.”
In the remaining quarter-finals, Barcelona hosts Real Sociedad and Sevilla take on Osasuna on Wednesday, while Valencia and Athletic Bilbao take on Thursday.
(Reporting by Fernando Callas; Editing by Christian Radonege)
