Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has sent a message to Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, saying that the Los Blancos are not afraid to take on the defending champions.
Since playing Athletic Club in La Liga last weekend, Real Madrid’s preparation for this UEFA Champions League quarter-final tie has been extensive.
The team is engaging in intense but concise physical training sessions, guided by Antonio Pintus, the technical trainer.
On Tuesday, it is said that Ancelotti held a casual meeting aiming to inspire his players ahead of an upcoming showdown with formidable opponents.
The match-up between the two teams has occurred four times in the past five years, with the latest encounter being last year’s UCL semi-final. Manchester City emerged victorious, defeating Madrid 4-0 as they went on to win the competition.
"This is Madrid, here whoever is afraid of the rival does not play. Last year they beat us and two years ago we made history. I trust you," said the manager as quoted by Defensa Central.
Ancelotti confidently declared, "We are going to win," as he anticipated having his full squad ready for the upcoming match. This includes Eder Militao, who made a brief appearance in the recent Athletic game.
However, there are two notable exceptions to this lineup. Firstly, Thibaut Courtois will be absent due to a re-injury of the meniscus in his right knee.
This setback occurred while he was still recuperating from a torn inner ligament in his left knee, sustained last summer.
Secondly, David Alaba will also be sidelined. He has been grappling with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee since last December, which has unfortunately ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Above all, the team from the Spanish capital has enough time to prepare for the tie. More rest for the players means better performance on the field.