Carlo Ancelotti talks Jude Bellingham, Jon Rahm, money and Isco

Carlo Ancelotti has spoken at a press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s trip to Seville to take on Real Betis this weekend.

The Italian head coach discussed a number of issues, including Isco’s form, injured players returning, and the goalkeeping situation at the club.

Betis

“It’s a difficult game, Betis do well at home. They are solid and well organised. The objective is to get the best out of our players and win. We are confident.”

Jon Rahm

“I would go on foot for €500 million, I don’t need a flight. I would walk... just kidding, everyone chooses what they want. The world is changing, and it will change. I’m not surprised by anyone. Rahm is very good... I don’t know much about golf, but I think he’s the best of them all.”

Saudi Arabia

“They haven’t called me, I live in the present, which is very nice. I have other goals and ideas. I have never thought about money... I grew up in a family where money was not important. I have money, but it’s not the most important thing. I feel good here and I hope I continue to feel good here.”

Kepa and Lunin

“Kepa is back, he’s fine, we have two goalkeepers we trust and tomorrow I’ll choose one of the two. There is competition, Lunin has done very well, but it’s a decision I’ll make tomorrow.”

Isco

“I’ve seen him, he’s playing very well. I’m very happy for him as he brings something to football. He’s had some difficult moments, but he’s come through. We have to control him well.”

Week’s work

“We’re trying to prepare well, with good physical and tactical work, that’s what I think a team needs. Sometimes a week without a game comes in handy.”

Bellingham

“He has done individual work and has to recover from the ankle issue. The shoulder is a problem that he has to take care of, doing specific work. He hasn’t had any problems playing, he’ll get better with every passing day.”

Lunin

“Lunin’s games have been good. He deserves to be considered to play. Nothing has changed with Kepa. He might be rotated in goal in the next few weeks... maybe.”

Güler

“He’s at the end of his recovery and next week he’ll start the most intense part. He’s very close to full fitness. I talk to him every day, as I do with every injured player. And I need a lot of time, because there are a lot of injuries.”

Shoulder operation for Bellingham

“He’ll have to have surgery, but not now. He’s fine.”

Vinícius

“We have Tchouaméni and Güler close to returning to training with us. Vini and Camavinga will have to wait until 2024, but I think they will be ready to train with us after the holidays.”