As Real Madrid prepares to face Manchester City in the Champions League playoff first leg, Carlo Ancelotti has labeled the matches between the two teams as a “clásico”. This upcoming clash at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night and the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu next Wednesday will mark the fifth meeting in six years in the knockout phase.
Ancelotti emphasized the significance of these encounters, stating, “It seems like it’s a clásico because we have played each other a lot of times in this competition.” He highlighted the importance of team attitude and confidence in such high-level games, emphasizing the need for players to perform at their best in every aspect.
The Italian coach acknowledged the challenge posed by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, considering them the toughest opponent they could have drawn. Despite Real Madrid leading La Liga and City sitting fifth in the Premier League, Ancelotti believes Guardiola’s side is formidable due to their quality and the tactical prowess of their manager.
Ancelotti praised Guardiola for his innovative approach to the game, describing it as a “nightmare” to prepare against him. The Real Madrid coach faces a defensive crisis with several key players injured, but he remains confident in his team’s ability to be competitive.
The article also touches on Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony last year in protest over Rodri winning the award over Vinícius Junior. Ancelotti defended the club’s stance, stating that they believed Vinícius Junior deserved the accolade.
Overall, the stage is set for an intense showdown between two European giants, with Ancelotti and Guardiola at the helm of their respective teams, showcasing their tactical acumen and competitive spirit in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
