‘Blatter’s Ronaldo words disrespectful’

Carlo Ancelotti has reacted with disappointment at Sepp Blatter’s comments on Cristiano Ronaldo and revealed that Florentino Perez has asked for an apology.

A video was released this week of the FIFA President talking of the comparisons between the Real Madrid star and Lionel Messi.

Indicating that he ‘preferred’ the Barcelona man, Blatter then proceeded to impersonate Ronaldo, in labelling him a ‘commander’ on the pitch.

For Ronaldo’s Coach, the comments have been poorly received.

“I know that our President has sent a letter to FIFA,” revealed Ancelotti at a Press conference today.

“This is a lack of respect towards a player who is very serious and very professional. I agree with the President.

“I have not spoken with Cristiano about it. He trained very well, as usual I think that it demonstrates that in every game, he is a great player.

“He is serious, professional and respects everyone. He has to continue like this and nothing more.”

Ancelotti was talking ahead of Madrid’s midweek League meeting with Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu.

“Xavi Alonso is available. He has trained with the team. Tomorrow he may start on the bench and we will try to give him some minutes. He is alright and just needs to gain confidence.

“The game system will not change, though. Xabi has all the quality to help the team play better. He has experience and quality of passing. In defending he also has a good attitude.

“Sevilla? They look to be a good organisation, they are five games unbeaten. We have to play hard from the first minute and try to do be at our maximum to continue to improve our game.

“Can he and Illarramendi play together? Illarra played well against Barcelona because he worked hard and recovered many balls. He has the same characteristics as Xabi Alonso.

“I think that the presence of Xabi can help to improve Illarra, but it is hard to put them together in a 4-3-3. With another system it could be, but with three midfielders it is difficult to place them together.”

Ancelotti’s early work in reshaping Madrid has not been without its issues, including a 2-1 defeat at the weekend to Barcelona.

“We are very close. I cannot say how many days [until things are right]. I hope that tomorrow we have the intensity that was missing against Barcelona.

“We only played very well in the second half at the Camp Nou and we need that same intensity throughout the game.

“For the fans, it is not clear how we are trying to play because it is true that we have not always played good football.

“So the criticism is normal. Only what counts is the constructive criticism. The design for this team is clear.”

Ancelotti later confirmed a 23-man squad for Sevilla’s visit, including Xabi Alonso in a Madrid selection for the first time since May, whilst Sergio Ramos also makes the cut despite missing training yesterday.

Real Madrid squad to face Sevilla: Casillas, Diego López, Jesús, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Varane, Carvajal, Marcelo, Arbeloa, Coentrão, Nacho, Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Casemiro, Modric, Di María, Isco, Illarra, Bale, Ronaldo, Benzema, Jesé, Morata.

Tags Ancelotti Blatter FIFA Messi Ronaldo
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