Real Madrid News
Ancelotti fully trusts Real Madrid defender, believes he offers balance to the team
Of late, there have been a lot of question marks over Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal and his performances, especially in the recent El Clasico defeat against Barcelona last week.
The veteran right-back has not been at his best of late, but according to MARCA, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti fully trusts Carvajal. In fact, the Italian tactician is of the belief that the Spanish international offers the necessary balance to the team.
When fit and available, Carvajal is the undisputed starter at right-back for Los Blancos. The 31-year-old has played 33 times across all competitions this season and has registered five assists in the process.
The right-back has been called up to the Spanish national team during the ongoing international break. He started the game against Norway on Saturday as La Roja secured a 3-0 win to kickstart the Luis de la Fuente era.
Carvajal is one of the most seasoned players in the squad and it is hardly surprising to see that Ancelotti trusts his veteran star to the hilt.
However, Real Madrid cannot ignore the fact that the 31-year-old is not getting any younger and his performances have not been at the top level on a consistent basis this season.
With Lucas Vazquez being the other option at right-back, it makes sense for Real Madrid to consider investing in a new player in the position in the summer. The option of signing youngster Vinicius Tobias on a permanent deal is also an avenue that can be considered.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
