Carlo Ancelotti confirms Kylian Mbappé could start the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta tomorrow, warning ‘defensive balance’ will be key for his new-look Real Madrid this season.
The big match kicks off at the National Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
It is the traditional season opener between the reigning holders of the Champions League and Europa League, a trophy that the Italian tactician has already lifted four times between Milan and Real Madrid.
“Atalanta are a team who deserve to be here thanks to their incredible work,” said Ancelotti in his press conference.
“Gian Piero Gasperini is a friend and has so much experience. He is a very tactical coach, so tomorrow will be a difficult match. I know he is missing many players, but I am sure it will be a great game.”
Ancelotti tries to build a Real Madrid team out of star names
Although Real Madrid are undoubtedly the favourites, they also run the risk of trying to fit too many attacking talents into the same line-up.
It is quite the task for him to put together Vinicius Junior, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham and new arrival Mbappé, who is expected to start on his Merengues debut tomorrow.
“Mbappé arrived on August 7, so we haven’t had much time to work, but he is in good shape and adapted very well. He could play from the start tomorrow,” continued Ancelotti.
“He is motivated, fired up and has incredible quality. From what I have seen so far, there is a very healthy locker room atmosphere. There are no princes or kings in this team, they are players who know how to put their qualities at the disposal of the group.”
When speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Ancelotti confessed this is going to be a delicate tactical puzzle for him, especially after Toni Kroos retired.
“It is always difficult to put together a line-up, because you end up leaving out those who deserve to play. It is a problem, having so many talented players! The key this season will be finding the right defensive balance.
“In attack, it will be tough to understand how we’ll be set out, because a lot depends on the creativity of the players at our disposal.”
That includes Vinicius, despite the reports of a huge proposal from the Saudi Pro League.
“Those are just rumours, nothing else. They do not affect him at all, he wants to help Real Madrid be at the top.”