Carlo Ancelotti has reflected on Real Madrid’s Champions League Last 16 draw with Schalke: “It is always difficult.”
Los Blancos will face off against the Bundesliga outfit after today’s draw paired the two clubs together for fixtures due next February and March.
“We are in the Last 16 of the Champions League and it is always difficult,” Ancelotti has told Madrid’s official website in reaction.
“We must be very focused. They are a team that has experience. It is not about good or bad luck.
“We are in the knockout stages of the Champions League now and we will do our best in the two games that we have.
“This is a very important competition and we have to be ready to give it our all.
“Our current level? I think that we are doing well. In February we have to be ready and will look to be at our best.”
Meanwhile, the Italian has also reflected this week on how he does not think twice about keeping Gareth Bale on the pitch if he is playing poorly, because of his price tag.
The Welshman was notably substituted just 10 minutes into the second half of Madrid’s eventual 2-2 draw at Osasuna on Saturday, after a quiet display.
“How do I substitute a player who cost €100m? Is there more to think about? He is just like the rest, if he plays badly, he is pulled out, like everyone,” mused Ancelotti on Rai this week.
Ancelotti has worked as a player and Coach at a number of major European cities, including Roma, Turin, Milan, London, Paris and now Madrid.
“At a sporting level, for the football atmosphere that prevails, London is at the forefront.
“From this point of view, it is the best city to live in. Madrid is also nice and there is great passion.
“Italian football at the moment? It is going through a particularly difficult period for structural rather than economic problems.
“All the major European countries have new stadiums, people go because they are modern. It is something that Italy should consider.”