Ancelotti posits Madrid derby as tough as El-Classico
Football legend Carlo Ancelotti is banking on fans' support to beat Atletico Madrid in Madrid derby on Sunday.
“Tomorrow is very important. It will be the third time we’ve played each other in a short space of time. and these games have always been competitive, evenly matched, and spectacular. The match is important, a key one. It’s good to be back at the Bernabéu, the fans will help us tomorrow.’’
The Italian coach is also banking on Antonio Rüdiger to be in his best element.
“He has improved a lot in the last 24 hours and today we expect the same. We will assess him tomorrow and make a decision. There is no internal damage (quad), but we must evaluate him. He will be in the squad and tomorrow I will decide if he plays or not.”
Ancelotti is also contemplating using Mendy or Carvajal as centre-backs.
“Yes... and the third option would be Camavinga, who has never played, but because of his profile, he can. He’s quick, with good ball control, and is strong in duels. Those would be the three options. But all three give me confidence. In my opinion, the job of a center-back, of a pivot, is the easiest in football, because you have to use your head more than your energy. All three could do it well.”
He thinks the next seven days may decide the La Liga winner,
“Seven days will be important, but not decisive. To win before the Champions League is key and what’s coming up is very, very important. We’re going into it in the best possible way and we have to take advantage of the home factor.”
He rates the Madrid derby to be as challenging as El Clásico and he sees Diego Simone as a tough opponent.
“They are intense matches, with a lot of pressure... but they are the same. Both Atlético and Barcelona have everything, individual qualities, and good organisation.”Simeone is one of the most difficult, without a doubt. He’s one of the opponents I respect the most because of his ability to read games and his ability to manage the team. Of course, he has been one of the most difficult opponents.
“Simeone is one of the opponents I respect the most”
Speaking about Luka Modric, the Italian said
“Modric had a great game against Getafe. That shows the strength of this squad, especially in midfield, where we have a lot of very different qualities.
Very, because when you have professionals who are serious and work well. It’s hard. And even more so if you know people who have marked and are marking an era here. [I’m] Grateful for what Luka has done at the club. The decision will be difficult, especially on a personal level, because on a professional level, it affects you a lot.”
