Ahead of a pivotal LaLiga clash against Valencia on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed the press. The match carries significant weight as Los Blancos aim to maintain their lead in the standings.
Despite holding the top spot in La Liga with a six-point advantage over second-placed Girona, Ancelotti emphasized the challenges that lie ahead. He stressed that Madrid cannot afford to underestimate their opponents, particularly in the daunting atmosphere of Valencia’s Mestalla stadium.
Ancelotti’s injury update
The Italian coach’s comments extended to the fitness of key players, including Jude Bellingham, Thibaut Courtois, and Eder Militão. As the team prepares for this crucial fixture, his focus remains on ensuring that his squad is fully prepared physically and mentally to tackle the challenges posed by Valencia.
“Madrid have always found it difficult to win there”, he said, “it’s a difficult field and the opponent is doing well. We need our best form. Carvajal, Camavinga, Joselu and Bellingham are all back. The squad is more complete… These are going to be very important points at this point in the season. Every game has a greater importance.”.
On that hint dropped by the coach, he was asked specifically about Bellingham, who has been injured since Madrid beat Girona at the start of February.
“He is one hundred percent, everything he has done and needed to do on an individual level is fine, he is comfortable with his ankle, he is at his best, he will play”
Ancelotti further confirmed the potential return of Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militão, indicating that both players could be back in action as early as next month.
“The date has not been set. But we have to take advantage of the national team break and then the mini-break from the Copa del Rey. At that time they will do some work with the team. After April 14, after Mallorca, they could be ready.”
Return to the dreadful Mestalla
“Our idea is to go and play a strong game, and Valencia’s idea is the same. The teams and the fans want a spectacle. We must not forget last year, because racist acts must be condemned and identified. Valencia did very well, identifying the person who committed the crime. It is a city that has experienced a tragedy [with the recent fire], we want to show solidarity with these families. We want to play the best match possible for that reason.”, he said as reported by all football
