The coach praised him after the win over Celta Vigo
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti spoke after his team secured a 3-2 victory over Celta Vigo in La Liga, in particular praising goalscorer Arda Güler as he said, “it has been a natural progression of a player who wants to play for Madrid, who has a lot of quality, who has worked a lot… It is clear that the Güler of September is not the one of today. His physical profile has changed, his quality is still there… it’s normal and natural.
Ancelotti on the Clásico
“Yes, we will have a great opportunity. We have to prepare well. It’s an almost decisive match.”
Ancelotti on what went wrong after the 3-0
“The game seemed to be over, we had the chance to score the fourth with Arda, we made the change because Asencio couldn’t take it anymore. You have to take into account that there were six defenders missing and we are not always able to fix these things. Yes, we could have managed better, we suffered a little, but it’s a nice victory.”
Ancelotti on whether a victory in the Clásico would see Real Madrid win the league
“If we win we have a point disadvantage, but we will have more chances if we are able to win.”
Ancelotti on whether Güler’s change is down to him or the player
“I have the responsibility to try to manage the squad better, not the individual. Sometimes it affects some players more than others. I’ve already said it: you have to put up with the bench to be a starter at Real Madrid. He will do better in the coming years. I think he’s done well on the bench, it hasn’t bothered him, and he’s progressed very well.”
Ancelotti on whether it’s impossible to beat Barcelona
“We played a week ago and it was competitive, we were close to winning. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel. The match has to be serious, very important and we are going to try and try. Despite everything, we can fight this match. It’s a beautiful thing.”
Ancelotti on Mbappé’s importance against Barcelona
“The fact that the defensive line is high up, his movements will be important and decisive. If he does, the better it is for us.”
Ancelotti on Rodrygo
“The team is clear. Rodrygo had a fever. There is time to prepare very well for the match.”
Ancelotti on Bellingham’s misunderstanding with Vinícius late on
“I think he did a lot of physical work at the end. He wanted to drive a little more. He didn’t notice that the opponent was behind. At the end of the match it can happen because of fatigue.”
Ancelotti on whether Güler could start against Barcelona
“He can play, that’s true. He will compete to be in the starting XI. There is no doubt about that.”
Ancelotti on Courtois being one of the most decisive goalkeepers he’s coached
“Yes, I’ve had a list, a fortunate career. I’ve had very important goalkeepers in my life: Buffon, Cech, Dida, Casillas, Van der Sar, Peruzzi… Courtois is very, very high on that list. I don’t know if he’s first, second, third, but I’ve had the best. And that has been key in my career… the same with defenders, midfielders, strikers.”
Ancelotti on Güler’s mentality
“I see him much better, with less responsibility this year. The pressure was too much for his age. He is handling it better. He has more confidence, if he makes a mistake it’s not the end of the world…. Two months ago I gave him stick and I think I have to congratulate him because they have done a good job with him.”
