Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti emphasized his team’s focus ahead of their Champions League semi-final first leg clash against Bayern Munich on Tuesday, cautioning against underestimating their opponents despite their recent domestic struggles.
Ancelotti highlighted Bayern’s formidable European pedigree, emphasizing that history counts for a lot in the Champions League.
Ancelotti stated during a press conference on Monday, “We are confident to face a team that, despite not having made a great Bundesliga, have had a great Champions League tie against Arsenal. In the Champions League, history counts a lot, it counts for them but that also plays in our favor.”
While Bayern Munich ended their 11-year Bundesliga reign, Ancelotti acknowledged their impressive performance in the Champions League, where they eliminated Arsenal in the previous round. Real Madrid, on the other hand, secured their spot in the semi-finals by knocking out holders Manchester City on penalties.
Related Stories
- Mbappe to Make His Debut for Real Madrid in UEFA Super Cup, Updates on Injury
- Real Madrid Faces 3 Biggest Threats in Quest for Consecutive La Liga Titles This Season
Ancelotti drew parallels between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, noting their ability to adapt to different circumstances. He emphasized the danger posed by Bayern in transition and their versatility in changing their style of play, highlighting the unpredictability of the upcoming match.
“We are two teams that don’t have a very clear identity … and we can play the games in different ways. But it’s only the first leg, it’s a 180 (minutes) tie which we face with confidence … but in the knowledge that we are up against a quality opponent with very strong individuals,” Ancelotti remarked.
Regarding team selection, Ancelotti remained tight-lipped, refusing to disclose any hints about his starting lineup. However, he acknowledged the impressive performances of France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who has filled in admirably in defense due to injuries to regular center-backs Eder Militao and David Alaba.
“(Tchouameni) will play tomorrow… But in which position? I don’t know…” Ancelotti stated, keeping Bayern guessing about Madrid’s defensive setup.
Eder Militao, who made his first start of the season in the recent win against Real Sociedad, is also in contention for a starting role, adding further intrigue to Ancelotti’s team selection for the crucial Champions League encounter.