Carlo Ancelotti has reflected that he sees the Santiago Bernabeu crowd whistling as they ‘do not like the team right now’, as he looks ahead to Real Sociedad.
Los Blancos host La Real under scrutiny for recent inconsistencies to their play in La Liga. It was put to the Coach at today’s Press conference of a possible contrast in performances produced in Europe.
“I do not think that the team has been so different between the competitions played,” considered Ancelotti in response.
“In the Champions League we have had good results. In La Liga there have been issues in our continuity.
“But it is something that also happened in the Champions League against Galatasaray, but afterwards things improved.
“I think we are the same in the League as we are in the Champions League.
“The crowd whistles because they do not like the team right now. That’s the reason.”
Real Sociedad arrive in the capital for Saturday’s test in improved form of late.
“They are a good team that is showing a good attitude in the Champions League and they have fast players.
“This is a very good test because we need to play well and with continuity and intensity. I expect for what I always do in these games. There will be difficulties because La Real are a very good team.
“When you play in the Champions League and you are not used it, it is not easy. This will be an exciting game. Who can defend better will win.
“Is Ronaldo fit to play? He is fine, it is a small issue with his toe. Today we have had an issue with Marcelo and his knee, and Khedira took a knock on his right leg. We need to wait for the scan on Marcelo this afternoon. I’m not sure how the two are.
“Do I know my preferred XI? It may be in my head that I have an XI, but throughout the season we need more players. You cannot always use the same XI, because you will have 11 that are worn out and 11 that are unmotivated. Therefore rotation is important. Cristiano is the only one who is not rotated because he is in a great moment. Someone who is playing very well will not be rotated.”
Ancelotti also reflected on Xabi Alonso’s continued recovery to full fitness.
“He is going to start [against Real Sociedad], he feels good. If he does not feel bad, he will play the 90 minutes. Xabi is very important because he has a lot of experience, but another major player is Illarramendi.
“He may not play as much or as quickly as Cabi, but he is great because he has a very good tactical ability. I think that in training he is improving his long pass and alongside the master of this, Xabi.”
Ancelotti was asked of rumours of Casemiro leaving the club in January and on the disappearance of Isco from the first-team picture.
“We have not spoken about this. I talked to him and he understands the situation. It is difficult for him to find space and he must wait for the opportunity when it comes to play.
“Isco? He played against Sevilla and last week did not play. The problem is the competition. Occasionally he plays and occasionally he will be on the bench. He needed rest and now he is fine.”
