Carlo Ancelotti said in the Stamford Bridge press room before Tuesday’s Chelsea-Real Madrid match: “We feel good and we’re motivated, as we always are for matches in this competition. We need a comprehensive performance since anything might happen in this competition. We hope to reach the semi-finals step-by-step. Reaching successive semi-finals is good. This club rules this competition.”
Ancelotti’s lineup
After replicating the Clásico second leg starting XI in the Chelsea first leg, the coach was questioned if he had a set lineup. The Italian replied: “One day you think you have a set starting line-up, but then the others might play one day and make you change your mind. This team is deep, so picking 11 is rude. More than 11 players should participate now.”
Kroos moving position: Ancelotti
Kroos has shifted to central midfield, a position he previously disliked, due to the lineup alteration. The coach said, “I don’t think it changes too much for him because he plays the same way on the ball and plays a similar way defensively. Modern football requires 11 people to defend, thus he must defend as a holding midfielder or elsewhere.
Todd Boehly’s dressing room visit: Ancelotti
Ancelotti was asked what he thought about Todd Boehly visiting the Chelsea dressing room, which was contentious in England. He said, “Chelsea are in a difficult moment, but that makes tomorrow’s game a good opportunity for them. Since Chelsea is struggling, a speech from the owner might motivate the players. I’d chat to an owner after every game. Owner’s right.”
Xavi on the sun: Ancelotti
Ancelotti was asked about Xavi’s sun-blame for Barcelona’s draw against Getafe. “We just want to play football,” he said. Teams play in the afternoon or night. But always be ready.”
Laporta news conference: Ancelotti
He was also questioned about Joan Laporta’s press appearance, but declined. He stated: “I haven’t seen it because we were traveling. I won’t comment since it’s under investigation.”
Bellingham: Ancelotti
The coach also declined to clarify if Real Madrid will sign Jude Bellingham. “Unfortunately, Bellingham is a Dortmund player and I don’t like to talk about other teams,” he said.