Ancelotti talks Barcelona, El Clasico, Mbappe, Rodrygo, Courtois after Real Madrid 3-2 Celta Vigo | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for his team’s hard-fought victory against Celta at the Santiago Bernabeu, a crucial win that sets the stage for the decisive Clasico at Montjuïc next weekend.

With the team still four points behind their arch-rivals, Barcelona, Ancelotti emphasised the importance of securing a win to keep their La Liga title hopes alive.

Although Real Madrid took a commanding 3-0 lead against Celta, the game was far from smooth sailing. A lapse in defence allowed the visitors to pull two goals back, raising tensions in the final stages.

However, Madrid held on to secure a 3-2 win, with Ancelotti’s men showing resilience under pressure.

“It was a hard-fought win. We were in control, but then we allowed two goals, which made things complicated. Fortunately, we kept our composure and held on to the victory,” Ancelotti reflected.

Clasico Outlook: Win or bust for the title

Ancelotti pressed on the importance of win over Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Looking ahead to the upcoming Clasico, Ancelotti acknowledged that a win in Barcelona is essential if his side is to stay in the hunt for the La Liga title.

“If we win, we will be one point behind, but we will still have plenty of chances to fight for the title. But make no mistake — we must win. It’s not impossible,” Ancelotti said confidently.

He also made it clear that his team, despite the challenge, has what it takes to compete with their fierce rivals:

“We played a competitive game against them a week ago, and we were close to winning. There’s no need to create extra pressure. We’ll approach the game seriously and with determination.”

Key players for the Clasico

Real Madrid will need Mbappe at his best. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Ancelotti also spoke about the importance of Kylian Mbappe for the upcoming game, particularly his ability to exploit spaces with his advanced positioning. “Mbappe’s movements will be decisive. If he performs well, it’ll be a huge advantage for us.”

When asked about the potential inclusion of Rodrygo in the starting lineup, Ancelotti confirmed that the Brazilian winger had been struggling with a slight fever but reassured that there is still time for him to recover ahead of the game.

“The team is clear. Rodrygo had a slight fever. There’s still time to prepare well for the match.”

Regarding Jude Bellingham, Ancelotti addressed the late disagreement between the English midfielder and Vinicius in their last match.

“Bellingham worked tirelessly in the final stages of the match. He was looking to drive forward, but he didn’t notice the opponent behind him.

“It was a fatigued moment. We all know how much energy Bellingham puts into each game.”

Courtois: A key player for Madrid’s success

Ancelotti has nothing but praise for Courtois. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Finally, Ancelotti was asked about the importance of Thibaut Courtois, who has been a rock in goal for Madrid this season.

The Italian coach has worked with several top goalkeepers in his career, including Buffon, Cech, and Casillas, but he was keen to highlight Courtois’ importance.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great goalkeepers throughout my career: Buffon, Cech, Dida, Casillas, Van der Sar, and Peruzzi.

“Courtois is very high on that list, and he’s been key for us. I don’t know if he’s the best I’ve had, but he is absolutely among the top,” he noted.

Source: AS