“It’s something I have to think about" - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti provides update ahead of UEFA Champions League clash with Liverpool
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has discussed his options at right-back ahead of his side's UEFA Champions League clash with Liverpool (November 27). The Spanish giants are light in the position after suffering injuries to Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vasquez.
In Los Blancos' most recent game, a 3-0 win away at Leganes, Federico Valverde deputized in that position. The Uruguayan did an admirable job that drew praise from his manager, who told the press after the game (via AS):
“Lucas and Tchouameni… we don’t know, but we’ll try to get them back. The truth is that Fede, at the back, did very well. As did Asencio, who played a very serious game, played with maturity. After Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez, he’s the best right-back in the world. His problem is that he can play at this level in many positions and the coach’s problem is choosing his best position for the team."
When asked if that meant Valverde would play in the same position against Liverpool midweek, Ancelotti said:
“It’s something I have to think about. We are well covered in the middle because Camavinga is at his best, Ceballos has played a very complete game and we also have Modric, who always does very well. It’s an assessment I’ll have to make when I know if we can get someone back."
Real Madrid are out to defend their LaLiga and Champions League crowns this season. They currently sit four points behind Barcelona domestically with a game in hand and 18th on the UCL table with six points from four games.
“Mendy’s absence was a technical decision" - Real Madrid manager confirms star will be available for Liverpool clash
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Ferland Mendy will be available for the side's clash with Liverpool in the Champions League. The Frenchman was rested for the team's 3-0 win over Leganes but his manager has confirmed there was no underlying issue.
Mendy joined the Spanish champions in 2019 from Lyon for a reported €48 million and has gone on to make 184 appearances for the club. He has helped Los Blancos to three LaLiga crowns and two Champions League titles, among other honors.
Speaking about the decision to rest the Frenchman on the weekend, Ancelotti said (as quoted by Marca via Football Espana):
“Mendy’s absence was a technical decision. Fran is playing very well, but Ferland will be very important on Wednesday."
Real Madrid have not lost to Liverpool in their last seven meetings, including winning the 2018 and 2022 Champions League finals. However, the Reds are in top form under new manager Arne Slot and sit atop the Premier League and UCL tables.