Carlo Ancelotti highlighted that the Champions League Round of 16 clash against Paris Saint-Germain creates more motivation than pressure.
Real Madrid come into this Champions League tie in inconsistent form, having won only two of their last five league outings. Their last match was a 0-0 draw with Unai Emery’s Villarreal on Saturday, not the result they were hoping for ahead of tomorrow’s game.
Speaking in a press conference today, Ancelotti first looked ahead to tomorrow’s match against PSG.
“We’re confident for tomorrow. This game is good enough to be a Champions League final. We’re up for beating one of the main rivals for this cup.”
He touched on his memories of working with the French club earlier in his career.
“I have fond memories of the time I spent here in PSG, I was connected to the fans, it’s one of the best clubs and it’s not easy to deal with the pressure of this club, Pochettino is doing a great job.”
Watch PSG vs. Real Madrid live around the world with ExpressVPN
The Italian coach commented on the pressure of match like tomorrow’s one.
“The only pressure we have for tomorrow is facing a great team like PSG, it’s more motivation than pressure. It’s not a difficult game to prepare, all the players are very motivated.
“It has to be a complete game from us tomorrow, both teams will try to produce when in possession and hit each other on counters. Our football is very alike.”
Ancelotti discussed the current position of Gareth Bale, who has hardly featured this season due to knee and calf injuries.
“I speak to him quite often, I also try to listen to his problems, our relationship is really good. He’s serious & professional, he’s very respected at the club. His injuries make it difficult for him to play more this season, now he’s feeling good.
“Bale wants to finish his Real Madrid career in the best way, he has helped the club win many great titles. He deserves the best.”
Finally, Ancelotti discussed the difficulty of coaching at the highest level.
“Coaching is not difficult, it’s a pleasure doing it. Coaching either PSG or Real Madrid is amazing.”
Ancelotti’s Real Madrid currently sit top of the league table, four points ahead of second place Sevilla.
👔 @MrAncelotti: "Las sensaciones son buenas. Tenemos toda la confianza del mundo."#UCL pic.twitter.com/wGNIOMYg8w
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) February 14, 2022