The Italian coach was asked about Real Madrid traveling to Saudi Arabia to play in the Spanish Super Cup.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti sat down with the press ahead of the match against Mallorca in the Spanish Super Cup, which is being played in Saudi Arabia.
The Italian was asked about a host of issues, including the fitness of returning defender David Alaba, the behavior of Vinicius Jr. and the reaction to that, and the decision to continue playing the Spanish tournament on another continent, over 6,000 km away.
This is what Ancelotti said:
How do you feel ahead of the match against Mallorca?
We have a lot of respect for their quality and the work of the coach. We must respect them as much as possible.
Do you still find it difficult to be Vinicius?
Both he and I have heard what is happening on the field. I still say it's hard to be Vinicius. The penalty (being sent off against Valencia) is wrong.
Do you think you need to change something about his behavior?
We are happy with Vinicius in every respect.
Does the fact that there is no extra time in the match against Mallorca change your approach?
No, our approach will not change. We know our opponents very well and they know us. It will be very competitive; It was a very difficult match for us in the league. They have good players, a good system and will compete well during the game.
What is your opinion on what happens to Olmo and Pau Víctor in Barcelona?
I can only talk about the match between Barcelona and Athletic. I don't want to talk about the issue surrounding Olmo and Pau Víctor.
Is Alaba ready to play? Has he recovered?
He looks very good. We're about to see him in action again.
You said in 2022 that the key to the locker room was not to consider yourself the 'king of the castle' and to put yourself first. Is that still the case?
Sometimes it happens that people think they are the best. Not just the players, but everyone does it. The team is on the right track. I think it's an important match. We hope that the tournament will drive and motivate us for the rest of the season.
How do you think the team is looking ahead to the match?
It looks much better, that's the truth. Every game has its own problems and difficulties, but I am calm in the sense that the team plans these types of games very well. We will not have any problems with our attitude or commitment. We are on the right track.
Are you tired of Vinicius always being in the spotlight?
Everyone has their own opinion. When people talk about provoking Vinicius, it distracts from the insults he receives.
Is it positive that there is competition in Saudi Arabia?
Having competition here is good for Spanish football and for the teams that play here: they have the chance to feel the support of the fans they have in the country.
Is it difficult to motivate players with such a tight schedule?
When a title is on the line, this team is always focused and ready to go. We handled this period well, we had a week off and used it to rest, come back in good condition and now we are all motivated.
What has changed on the Jagoba Arrasate side of Mallorca?
I don't want to compare what has changed with Aguirre's team. They defend very well, like all Arrasate teams. They capitalize on the value of their players and that is exactly my idea of what a coach should be: capitalizing on the skills and talents of the players.
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