Ancelotti: “I apologize for what I said about Rudiger.. it was a misunderstanding”
Carlo Ancelotti appeared in the press room on the eve of the match against Manchester City and wanted to make it clear that City “have the best team in Europe at the moment” and expect an “exciting” game.
“What plan are you going to play with tomorrow?”
It’s simple: we’ll try to do better than we did in the first leg, because we can do better individually and collectively.
Will you go back to the four midfielders plan (putting Rodrygo on the bench)?
The plan to put Valverde as a winger gave us the league and the Champions League. Playing with our attacking trio took us to the semi-finals. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s already been made.
Do you expect to reach the penalty shootout? Have you trained on it?
It’s always difficult to practice penalty kicks, because in the semi-finals… it’s very emotional and it’s almost impossible to practice with that feeling. We don’t think about it, but about winning the game.
Do you see Militao more “awakened”?
He’s very excited, like everyone else. The issue of motivation for these matches… If you’re not excited before the Champions League semi-finals, you can’t play football! Militao is ready, as is Rudiger. On top, like everyone else. It could not be otherwise.
Are you concerned?
I’m calm. enthusiastic with faith. I know tomorrow well…it will be a worry day. I’m having some bad thoughts. There’s Haaland and De Bruyne…but it’s time to forget about that and believe that Vinicius can do a good dribble and Benzema, he makes a good move.
Control your head and don’t be negative. We are very happy to be here, although it is completely normal for a club we are Real Madrid: this club has reached the semi-finals 11 times out of 13. It is not easy and we must enjoy it.
You said Rudiger will start tomorrow, do you still think?
That was a misunderstanding! I thought they were referring to Rodrygo. He can play of course, of course, like Militao and Camavinga… It’s a decision I have to make. But it was a misunderstanding and I apologize. I thought they were talking about Rodrygo.
Guardiola said he doesn’t know how Real Madrid always dominate this competition
It is not easy to explain. Real Madrid’s Champions League is special because of its history. From the first five cups to today. It is a club that can keep this story alive, everyone who plays: Di Stéfano, Gento, Amancio. Among his great qualities: We do not forget our history.
Which is heavier, Madrid’s “greatness” or City’s “best team in Europe”?
Tough comparison. The match is unpredictable. Even with the best team in the world, you will be 100% sure that you will win.
What factor can make the difference tomorrow?
Courage is essential in this type of confrontation. Both individually and collectively. We must have a strong character to know how to endure and suffer.
Source: Marca
