REAL MADRID
Ancelotti opens up on “different” Mbappé at Real Madrid
The Italian coach sat down in front of the press ahead of Real Madrid’s LaLiga game against Celta Vigo.
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti returned to the public eye after a two-week break for international football. The Italian was quizzed by the press on everything from the general state of the squad to Dani Carvajal, Vinicius Jr’s fitness and Kylian Mbappé's headline week.
Los Blancos take on Celta de Vigo at Balaídos on Saturday 19 October and ahead of the game, they sit just three points behind Barcelona at the top of the league table. Meanwhile, Celta sit comfortably in ninth place in the table, having recently beaten Las Palmas 1-0 away on match day nine.
HOW TO WATCH: Real Madrid vs Celta Vigo in LaLiga
First game without Carvajal, how do you see the match against Celta?
“First of all, we’re very sorry for Dani. He’s a crucial player for us. Although we’ll miss him on the pitch for the next few months, he’ll remain a leader in the dressing room, working alongside the team. We’ll draw on his strength and mentality. We’ve used this break to train hard. Several players have improved their physical condition, and the international players have returned in top shape. We’re feeling confident ahead of tomorrow’s match against a strong team. The squad looks motivated and in great physical condition.”
How is Mbappé doing?
“Mbappé used this break to enhance his fitness. He’s in great form, happy, and eager to play tomorrow. These past 15 days have done wonders for him, and he’s a different player now than he was before the break.”
Are you going to rotate the team against Celta?
“Rodrygo and Valverde, who just rejoined the team, trained today. We’ll assess their condition with the medical team tomorrow. As for the rest, everyone’s in good shape.”
Have you asked the club for reinforcements in January?
“No, I haven’t asked the club for reinforcements. Last season, we managed well with the injuries we had, and I believe it will be the same this year.”
LaLiga EA Sports 2024/2025
| Classification | PTS | WM | TM | LM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1Barcelona | 24 | 8 | 0 | 1 |
| 2Real Madrid | 21 | 6 | 3 | 0 |
| 3Atlético | 17 | 4 | 5 | 0 |
| Upcoming matches | |
|---|---|
| Celta - Real Madrid | S-19/10 15:00 |
| Real Madrid - Barcelona | S-26/10 15:00 |
| Valencia - Real Madrid | S-02/11 16:00 |
*Data updated to date Oct 18th, 2024
Can any of the Madrid academy players replace Carvajal?
“We have options like Loren, Fortea, and Jacobo. We evaluate their progress every day and see what they can offer us.”
Has Mbappé focused more on physical or tactical work?
“Mainly physical work, as we’ve had a smaller group of players to train with. Castilla (the B team) have been a big help, but overall, this break has been great for focusing on fitness.”
Are you ruling out winter signings?
“We’re not ruling anything out. If there’s a player who fits Real Madrid’s needs, we’ll consider it, but it’s not that simple. We also have young players stepping up, and Alaba will be returning soon. Right now, we’re not thinking about any new signings.”
How is Mbappé's mood after all the recent speculation?
“I’m not here to comment on rumours. My focus is on his work, and he’s been great.”
Apart from Lucas, who do you see as an option for right-back?
“Militão.”
Have you spoken to Mbappé about the situation in Stockholm?
“I talk to my players every day, but I’m not going to address speculation. Right now, I see a happy, motivated player eager to contribute.”
What can you tell us about Vinicius’ fitness?
“The break has been really beneficial for him, just like it has been for both Kylian and Mendy. They’ve worked hard, and they’ve also had time to rest, which I think they enjoyed. But tomorrow’s game will be the true test.”
How do you feel about the team in general?
“The feeling is different now. I’m more confident than I was a month ago. The team looks motivated, physically better, and this is a crucial part of the season. We’re facing tough opponents, but I have a good feeling. Hopefully, we’ll see that reflected on the pitch.”
Were you approached to coach England?
“No, there’s been no contact with the English FA. I think they’ve picked a great coach, someone who’s tactically strong. I wish him the best.”
How close is Mbappé to 100%?
“He’s very close. It’s a pleasure to see him in training, and he’s doing exceptionally well.”
Thoughts on making 200 La Liga matches with Real Madrid?
“I didn’t even realise I’d reached 200 games! There have been many great moments, and some not so great. The goal is to keep playing as many games as possible. Let’s see if I can make it to 300.”
How do you feel about playing Lucas Vázquez with such a busy schedule?
“One of Lucas’s best qualities is his resilience. He’s energetic and dynamic. I don’t think he’ll have any issues playing the number of games we need him to. We have complete faith in him because he consistently performs well.”
What do you make of Mbappé's trip to Sweden?
“Rest days were scheduled, and players can do what they want with that time. I spent two days in London, and I didn’t ask anyone for permission. I’m not running a travel agency for the players either.”
The LaLiga matchday-10 game between Celta Vigo and Real Madrid will be played at the Estadio Abanca-Balaídos in Vigo, Spain, on Saturday October 19, 2024. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET/12 noon PT.
Viewers in the United States can watch Celta vs Madrid on ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. Your streaming options also include the online platform fubo, which offers new users a free trial.