In Real Madrid's pre-match conference ahead of their upcoming Champions League clash away to Lille, manager Carlo Ancelotti analyzed the importance of the game in detail and responded to the controversial incident that took place in last weekend's Madrid derby.
Importance of the competition
Carlo Ancelotti said that this game is crucial for Real Madrid and they must take the points, but also fully realize the strength of the opponent Lille. He praised Lille as a very good team that likes to control the ball and has a group of young and powerful players. Carlo Ancelotti emphasized that every game must be fought at full strength, for which they are fully prepared.
Madrid derby controversy
In response to the controversy that arose from last weekend's Madrid derby, and in particular Simeone's call for the punishment of Courtois, who provoked the fans, Ancelotti said that he respected everyone's views but made it clear that violent behavior is not allowed in soccer or in life. He called for violent people to stay out of soccer stadiums so as not to create danger. Regarding the specific behavior of Courtois, Ancelotti believes that it has been a distraction and does not need to comment too much.
Lille team evaluation
Carlo Ancelotti spoke highly of the Lille team as a great club with excellent results and many good players. He made a special mention of Lille president Olivier Letang, saying how much he liked him.
Mbappe injury
Regarding Mbappe's injury, Ancelotti revealed that he is recovering well and progressing quickly. He has trained yesterday and will be part of the full squad today. Ancelotti said that they will decide whether to play Mbappe or not based on his training, as the last thing they want to do is take risks. He emphasized that Mbappe's condition is a grade one overload, which he recovered from in less than a week, and that if he is in good shape and there are no risks, he will make his debut.
Modric Role
On whether Modric is the closest player to the Kroos role, Ancelotti said that they have not found a replacement for Kroos and have to adapt to the fact that he has left. He believes Modric was at his best in the Madrid derby, but Kroos is irreplaceable. Ancelotti said that they will find the best way to play without Kroos and is confident that the team will show its best soon.
Other topics
Ancelotti also spoke about Güler's situation, stating that he is making more appearances at this stage of the season than he did at the same time last year, is progressing and knows his role and future here. On Atletico fans celebrating with extreme fans, Ancelotti said he had no opinion and did not want to comment on the behavior of others.
Overall, Ancelotti's conference showed the importance of the game and concern for the players, while also expressing a zero-tolerance attitude towards violence on the soccer pitch.
