Real Madrid News
Ancelotti talks Hazard, Asensio, Camavinga, Alaba, Rudiger after Almeria 1-2 Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s title defence began with a 2-1 win over newly promoted Almeria on Sunday night. While the win was not spectacular or dominant, Los Blancos managed to get all three points and secure a lead over Barcelona.
The hosts took an early lead via Ramazani’s finessed shot before Lucas Vasquez brought the team back on track at the hour mark. Ultimately, a David Alaba screamer gave Real Madrid the decisive edge.
Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media after his team’s win and spoke about the performance and avenues for improvement. Madrid Universal brings you the snippets from his press conference.
On the performance of his young midfielders: “Camavinga and Tchouameni have not shown the quality that I see in training, it is normal, this shirt is very heavy.”
On the team’s performance: “I am happy with the game even though it wasn’t spectacular.”
On Eden Hazard: “Hazard did a great job in the tight spaces, he’s training well and taking his time.”
On Marco Asensio’s future: “We have to wait and see what Asensio decides.”
On Antonio Rudiger’s debut: “Rudiger played a great game, he has a lot of experience.”
On the possibility of playing with a 4-4-2 (diamond): “I don’t know, I have to think about it. Keep in mind that we have an attacker, Vini, who likes the wing very much.”
On David Alaba’s match-winning goal: “Davide had to tell Alaba to go on very quickly because it isn’t easy to tell Benzema and Toni not to shoot. I’m kidding.
On the youngsters: “From what they’ve shown in training, the youngsters deserve to play. But on an emotional level, the game weighed little heavily on them.”
Source: RealMadridTV
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
