"The number of matches" - Carlo Ancelotti not happy with new UEFA Champions League format as Real Madrid begin title defense
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has shared his thoughts on the tough schedule that players face these days. He pointed out that the number of matches have significantly increased and the governing bodies need to think about the players.
UEFA has made changes to the Champions League, Europa League, and the Europa Conference League. The teams will now play eight matches in the league stage, two more than before and the league stage will go on till January.
As Real Madrid prepare to host VfB Stuttgart in the Champions League on Tuesday (September 17), Ancelotti said about the fixture congestion (via Managing Madrid):
“We’ve been looking for what we can do, but it’s not in our hands. The schedule is too demanding. A new competition is coming and we don’t know how it will turn out. It may or may not be more entertaining. But what is certain is that we have two more matches.
"If the governing bodies don’t start thinking that players get injured because they play too much, we have a problem. I ask that the number of matches be reduced in order to have more attractive competitions.”
Los Blancos are set to take part in seven competitions this season. They have already won the UEFA Super Cup, beating Atalanta 2-0, so they're left with six. FIFA has also introduced a new competition this season onwards - the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
Carlo Ancelotti provides injury update ahead of Real Madrid vs Stuttgart
Real Madrid have had to deal with numerous injury issues already this season but there seems to be some positive news. Jude Bellingham, who hasn't featured in any La Liga game so far, will be back for the clash against Stuttgart. Aurelien Tchouameni and Eder Militao are fine as well, as Carlo Ancelotti said (via Managing Madrid):
“Bellingham is fine, as is Tchouameni and Militão... who didn’t train today because he needed an extra day of recovery. The team is doing quite well.”
Meanwhile, Brahim Diaz suffered an abductor injury during Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Real Sociedad. He's expected to be out for three months. Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba remain out as well.
Los Blancos have had an underwhelming start to their domestic season. They are unbeaten with three wins and two draws but their performances have left a lot to be desired. They will hope the 15-time Champions League winners find their form back on Tuesday.