Ancelotti talked to the media after the 1-0 win over Athletic Club.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media after Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Athletic Club on Sunday night. He was asked about the system he used to beat Athletic, to which he said: “My preferred system is 4-4-2 because I think we defend better, I have a lot of affection for it because defensively it’s the best system.”
Ancelotti on the performance
“The truth is that in the first half we had more control, we didn’t suffer from Athletic’s pressure, but the truth is we didn’t create any chances. I think the game was good, we didn’t concede a goal, we were aggressive, united. There’s good news, so let’s see if we continue to improve.”
Ancelotti on Jude Bellingham’s positioning and performance
“That position gave us a big advantage last season. He did very well today, especially in the second half, because we attacked more and he deserved to score.”
Ancelotti on Vinicius Jr
“He’s an extraordinary player, he has a fantastic attitude, he scored the goal, he set up two or three goals, he was decisive as always.
“It hasn’t been a happy time for him or for us, but I liked what he’s done and he’s always very important to us.”
Ancelotti on the crowd
“I had no doubt they would support us. They’ve been great as always. They, like us, believe we can achieve something this season.”
Ancelotti on Fede Valverde
“He was key with the goal. In the second half, we did very well in every way. The team delivered, and Fede was the key in the end.”
Ancelotti on the starting goalkeeper vs Barcelona
“Either Lunin or Courtois, I wouldn’t rule out Fran González either, who has done very well when he came on.”
Ancelotti on whether this was a rehearsal for the final
“No, I’ve put together a starting lineup to have more control with Luka and Ceballos, who performed well in the 60 minutes because he was coming off an injury. We have time to prepare for the final, and this win is good for us.”
Ancelotti on why he has not used the 4-4-2 more
“That doesn’t mean I have to play with four midfielders. Sometimes the two strikers have been Mbappe and Vini, and Jude on the left, but it was a 4-4-2. You can play like that with six midfielders. We have wingers who can play in the middle.”
