Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 14, 2024 7:15 am GMT
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to lead his team into another crucial La Liga match against Deportivo Alavés. With the club currently on a remarkable 38-match unbeaten streak in the league, Ancelotti expressed his determination to maintain this positive momentum.
In a press conference ahead of the game, Ancelotti highlighted the importance of team spirit and fighting for every point. “Our objective is always the same. We are starting to build up some good momentum and we want to continue with it,” he stated. “We have to dig deep, fight, and compete in every game, and we’ll be much better in the next few games.”
Injury Updates and Player Performance
As the match approaches, Ancelotti provided updates on several players. He reassured fans about Jude Bellingham, stating that his shoulder issue is recoverable: “Bellingham’s shoulder problem wasn’t like last year’s. He’s not injured and he’s been recovering. We’ll have to protect the shoulder, but Jude is available and can play.”
On the other hand, Dani Carvajal’s recovery is taking a bit longer. Ancelotti said, “Carvajal hasn’t quite recovered from the knock and will need a few more days, but he will be fit for Sunday.” Such updates are crucial for fans eager to see their favorite players take the field.
Milestone Ahead
This match against Alavés is particularly significant for Ancelotti, as he is set to reach the milestone of 300 matches as Real Madrid’s head coach. Reflecting on his time with the club, he shared, “I have been lucky enough to coach big clubs. It has been, is, and always will be special to be on this bench; to get to 300 games is not a miracle, but almost.”
Rotations and Youngsters
Ancelotti is also looking at squad rotations to keep the team fresh. “It’s true that this is a time to rotate and we’re doing it. We have fresh players like Vinícius, Ferland Rüdiger, and Lucas Vázquez, who will get more opportunities,” he remarked. This decision is vital as it allows young talents to gain experience while maintaining team performance.
An exciting prospect for fans has been the emergence of Endrick, a promising young player. Ancelotti explained, “His role is clear, but it’s not 100% defined either. In the few minutes he’s played, he’s been on the right wing… he’s a center forward but can play on the wing.”
His flexibility is beneficial for the team as it adapts to varying game situations.
Addressing Team Identity
A recurrent topic in football discussions is the identity of a team. Ancelotti noted, “Some people think that we don’t have a game plan because we don’t have a clear identity, but we have many different identities.” He emphasized that Real Madrid has successfully played different styles, from defensive solidity to dominating possession.
Future Aspirations
Ancelotti also addressed queries regarding his future with Real Madrid. “Nobody has an expiry date on me, as long as I like doing this job. I can’t compare my fatigue with that of the players,” he said. His passion for coaching remains strong, and he expressed a desire to continue at the club for years to come.
Handling Injuries in Football
Injuries are an unfortunate reality in football, and Ancelotti shared his sadness over the injuries to key players, specifically mentioning Marc-André ter Stegen, a top goalkeeper who has recently faced setbacks. “I hope he will be back to full fitness as quickly as possible,” Ancelotti stated, recognizing the impact injuries can have on the league’s best players.
Key Players Making a Difference
Players like Federico Valverde and Ferland Mendy have been critical to the team’s success, each bringing versatility and stability to the squad. Ancelotti praised Valverde’s ability to excel in multiple roles on the field, explaining that “his performance for the team… is fundamental.”
As for Mendy, he commended his defensive prowess, saying, “He is doing very well. Defensively he’s playing at a very high level.” This recognition points to Ancelotti’s appreciation for players who contribute in different ways, especially when the team needs to dig deep defensively.
Conclusion
Real Madrid is getting ready to play against Alavés, and fans are super excited! The team has a strong lineup, a coach who understands how to work with the players, and they want to keep their unbeaten streak going. Coach Ancelotti’s positive attitude makes everyone feel hopeful as the team aims to stay at the top of La Liga. This game is not just another match; it’s a chance to keep winning and maybe even make some history!
