Ancelotti warns squad: “There are two types of players and you can’t be in the middle”
Real Madrid coach previews UEFA Champions League clash with Atlético Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti analysed all the current Real Madrid situation and gave a warning to the squad, ahead of the match against Atlético Madrid , counting towards the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 .
“It will be a balanced tie and everything will be decided in the second leg. We can’t think about getting a good advantage tomorrow”, he began by pointing out, in a press conference, talking about two types of footballers that every squad has.
“To clarify a little, there are two types of players: those who run and those who make a difference. If someone wants to be in the middle, they can’t be there. Either you run or you make a difference. You can’t be in the middle,” said Ancelotti, who had criticised the squad after the 1-2 defeat in Seville to Betis in LaLiga .
The Real Madrid coach gave an update on Federico Valverde’s clinical situation: «Yesterday [Sunday] he felt good and today he will train with the team. After training we will make a decision.»
Ancelotti also highlighted Griezmann and Mbappé , giving the two forwards high praise.
“They are among the best players in the world. They have extraordinary quality, even though they have different characteristics. Griezmann likes to come and play and rarely fails to make passes. Kylian has the quality of a real striker, stronger in finishing and in getting away from the defenders,” he said, also addressing the issue of injuries.
“We have had a lot of injuries and serious ones. It affects the season. Injuries are a good opportunity to see the character of the squad and the training. It is a very demanding calendar for everyone, not just for us,” he added.
