Ancelotti lauds team spirit ahead of Madrid’s UCL clash with RB Leipzig

Carlo Ancelotti addressed the press at the RB Arena ahead of the Champions League last 16 clash between Leipzig and Real Madrid later today.

Coming from an impressive 4-0 league victory over Girona last weekend, Ancelotti emphasized the team’s positive momentum and excitement for the UCL return, highlighting the need for a strong defensive and offensive performance against a Leipzig side that has attained formidable heights in recent times.

“We go into the game on a good run and we’re enjoying good momentum. The team is excited and well up for it,” the 64-year-old said.

“The Champions League is back, and it’s a competition we really like and we’re playing against a strong, quality team who play high intensity football. “We have to put on a complete performance, especially defensively, and offensively, where we have the quality.”

Ancelloti on injuries and adaptations

Jude Bellingham and Antonio Rudiger are the latest additions to Real Madrid’s injured players.

Reacting to the possibility of this affecting his team’s performances, Ancelloti said “We never think of those who aren’t here. It’s fair to think about those who are there.”

On convincing players to play out of position, the Italian manager said, “Convincing the players is very important. When you talk to them you can understand whether or not they want to play in this position.

“Most of them have told me that they have no problem because they take into account the team’s difficulties and they want to contribute. I’m not going to pick a player who doesn’t like to play in a position.

“I will never force things, but I will try to convince them. We have other options that I have to take into account. Leipzig are very strong on set pieces and for Brahim this is not his best quality, he’s not a giant. Carvajal as a centre-back has played very well. I have to think about it.”

RB Leipzig vs Real Madrid

The last meeting between both sides at the Red Bull Arena ended with RB Leipzig defeating Real Madrid 3-2 in last season’s UCL group stage.

Come 9 pm (WAT) later today, Marco Rose and his boys will looking to repeat this and get back to winning ways after dropping points in a 2-2 draw to Augsburg over the weekend.