Real Madrid coasted to a 2-0 win over Manchester United at the NRG Stadium on Wednesday night courtesy of goals from Jude Bellingham and Joselu. The game was evenly balanced for the most part with the English side recording more shots on target. However, the Spanish team’s defence was on point.
Carlo Ancelotti faced the press after his team’s win on the night and spoke about a plethora of topics from Casemiro to Jude Bellingham. Here are the takeaways from his press conference.
The manager began his interaction with a quick summary of the team’s performance on the night, insisting that the display in the first half was better than the second. He also went on to laud his side for their showing and quality against one of Europe’s top teams.
“We have played a good game, especially in the first half. We have played well and defєɴԀed well. The second part has been more controlled, but with a good attitude and commitment,”he said.
“We have a team of great physical and technical quality. The squad is very good and has improved with the additions. We are complete.”
Despite having won it all,Real Madridalways stay grounded. The manager highlighted the same in his interview and added that it was not difficult to manage the squad.
“We have a team without egos and it’s very simple to manage the locker room. The team is fine, with a good atmosphere and motivated. We want to work well to start the season on a good note.”
One of the highlights of the game was Bellingham’s opener in just the sixth minute of the game. A tightly engaged competition ensued, but Joselu’s goal in the dying minutes sealed the win. Speaking about the goal on the night, the manager said:
“The one from Bellingham shows his quality, arriving from the second line at the right time. Joselu’s goal is not seen many times. We know what he can contribute, which is this. He is a great area finisher and stands out very well at the back post. Today he has had three or four opportunities to score.”
The coach then gave his thoughts about the newly implemented 4-4-2 system that he experimented on the night. He emphasised the changes it bɾօυɢҺt to the forward department and how it suited certain players.
“The new system is going well. Vini Jr. likes to play a little more on the inside and sometimes he has to play on the outside because he is also very strong,”he said.
“His position and that of Rodrygo create a lot of danger because they are very fast and we can play more directly like this. The system also facilitates the quality of Bellingham.”
Thibaut Courtois did not participate on the night once again owing to fitness concerns, and the Italian tactician assured fɑɴȿ that the star goalkeeper would soon return to action.
“He has a little discomfort and it doesn’t make sense to risk. He’s going to play the next game, like Arda Güler, who is going to play soon.”
Los Blancosstarted the game against Manchester United with Fran Garcia as the left-back. The Spaniard is said to be the manager’s first choice for the position heading into the new season and was praised for his performance.
“He’s doing very well. He pushes a lot and arrives many times to cross. We are very happy.”
Finally, theReal Madridcoach spoke about a club legєɴԀ playing for the opposition, Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder featured for over 60 minutes for Erik ten Hag’s side, and Ancelotti maintained that he would forever remain aReal Madridplayer.
“We love him very much and for us, he is aReal MadridlegєɴԀ and he is still aReal Madridplayer.”
