Carlo Ancelotti believes Cristiano Ronaldo is just a goal away from rediscovering his best form for Real Madrid.
The Portuguese’s performance levels have come under fire in recent weeks, exacerbated by both his decision to celebrate his 30th birthday after Los Blancos’ heavy defeat by arch-rivals Atletico Madrid a fortnight ago and a barren spell of three matches.
“[Pepe has recovered and will] play. [Ronaldo’s] performance against Deportivo was very good,” the Coach told reporters ahead of Madrid’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Schalke on Wednesday.
“He showed good intensity. I think he’s improving, he lacks a goal but [Wednesday] is a good opportunity for him to [score].
“[Toni Kroos] has intelligence in his game.
“I’ve never answered what the Press have said [about my team] and I won’t start now.
“Everyone has their own idea of football and I think it’s only fair that each [person] expresses it.
“One of [Asier Illarramendi and Lucas Silva] will play, but I still have doubts. Compared to last year, Schalke have changed their system.
“Our system is always the same [regardless of absences]. It’s a game we have to play with intensity, both in defence and attack.
“That’s what we propose: a game with high intensity, retrieving the ball quickly in defence and going forward with more depth in attack.”
