‘Keylor or Iker next? We’ll see…’

Carlo Ancelotti gave no hints if Keylor Navas or Iker Casillas would play against Villarreal after the latter got his Real Madrid debut against Elche.

Madrid took a 5-1 win over Fran Escriba’s team with Navas only beaten by an Edu Albacar penalty, while Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice from the spot as part of a four-goal haul.

Navas’ involvement was one of four changes for Los Blancos but speaking to reporters after the match, Ancelotti declined to reveal if he would restore Casillas when Madrid go to El Madrigal.

The Coach also denied he was swayed by the Santiago Bernabeu crowd’s negative response to Casillas in his last home appearance, insisting the decision had nothing to do with the jeers received by the skipper.

“We’ll see who plays in goal on Saturday,” Ancelotti said, Marca reports.

“The whistles of the Bernabeu have zero influence on who I leave on the bench.

“Keylor played well, with calmness. He didn’t have much chance to show what he can do but he looked calm.”

Ancelotti also praised another of the additions, Asier Illarramendi, who came into the Madrid midfield.

“I’m very happy for him. He’s a very important player for our team, a player who is ready when he’s needed.

“The rotations are important for everyone and everyone is motivated. We have a lot of games and it’s normal to rotate.

“Those who have been rested today will play on Saturday.”

Ancelotti also commented on the contribution of Ronaldo, who claimed a second hat-trick in as many games.

“Cristiano is physically fine and very motivated,” Ancelotti noted.

“He enjoys playing in space and doesn’t like going back to defend his own goal.”

Tags Carlo Ancelotti Iker Casillas Keylor Navas
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