LALIGA
Real Madrid’s Ancelotti sends Bellingham message to England camp
The Italian manager was clearly delighted with his team’s impressive victory over Valencia with particular focus on his Brazilian forwards.
A victory, but not just any victory. Against Valencia, a perennial rival circled in red on the calendar. And right before an international break. “It has been our best game,” confirmed Carlo Ancelotti after the full-time whistle. He also believes that Vinicius and Rodrygo have returned to their best form, had understandable high praise for league leaders Girona, and an important message regarding Jude Bellingham directed towards Gareth Southgate and the England camp. Here’s what we got from Carletto’s latest press conference and mixed zone appearance following Madrid’s 5-1 win.
Madrid’s Ancelotti press conference after Valencia win
Have you been unfair to Lunin? Was this the best game of the season?
“When you have a squad of this level... Modric wanted to play from the start and he was on the bench. You have to choose, and it’s not always easy. It has been our best game. Valencia did not show their best level because we played a very good game. Apart from the first few minutes, the match was perfect.”
What are your thoughts on Vinicius and Rodrygo?
“They have returned to their best level. They needed time, and in the last two games, they have done very well, playing with extraordinary quality. It can be said that they are back.”
Do you know if Bellingham is going with England?
“He is going to be assessed, but if he hasn’t played today, he can’t play for England. We will know in the coming weeks. After the break, he can play again. We have played very well in the last three home games. We have been a complete team.”
Can Girona be a Leicester?
“They are doing very well, better than us. They can compete in every game. They can compete for the league. I have no doubt about this.”
How important is Carvajal?
“Yes, he has the experience in that position. He is a very good full-back, with and without the ball. He scored a spectacular goal. We did very well on the outside. With Carvajal and Brahim on the flanks.”
Were these the best minutes for Camavinga as a pivot?
“It is clear that as a pivot, he is more accustomed. In the last few games without Tchouameni, he has done very well in that position.”
Could you have given more minutes to Nico Paz?
“The game is settled when the referee blows the whistle.”
Was it Vinicius’ best individual performance?
“Yes, I think so. But overall, I don’t like to evaluate individual work, but the collective. And everyone did well.”
What were you telling the players during the substitutions?
“Vinicius said he wanted to play, and I told Brahim not to take shortcuts because I don’t like them.”
Madrid’s Ancelotti in the mixed zone
What’s the feeling?
“A great game. From start to finish, showing all the quality we have. Attitude, courage. It was a very well-played match.”
How does Ancelotti go into the break?
“Well, well. With a somewhat strange feeling after the draw against Rayo, but knowing that we reacted well, regaining accuracy upfront. Vini and Rodry have returned. We are happy, knowing that we have a good dynamic.”
It seems like the team has regained its goal-scoring touch...
“And we have also improved defensively! Playing against Valencia is not easy, but the interpretation of the game was good. We suffered in the first 15 minutes, but then we were decisive.”
Top-notch performances from Rodrygo, Vinicius, or Carvajal...
“Everyone delivered, everyone. When Rodrygo and Vinicius have a good day, there are many opportunities. And the last two games are a perfect reflection.”
What do you think of Pirri’s appointment as Honorary President?
“He is a legend of this club, who has given his life for Real Madrid. We are proud of the appointment, as he perfectly represents the values of the club.”