Real Madrid News
Carlo Ancelotti set to deploy ‘Real Madrid B team’ against Atletico Madrid
Despite supposedly being a team in ‘transition’, Real Madrid have dominated world football on all fronts this season.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side sealed the league title last week with their win over Espanyol with over four games in hand. Meanwhile, the team pulled over an unimaginable comeback against Manchester City to advance to the finals of the prestigious competition.
With the league done and dusted, the manager prioritises the European competition now.
The final against Liverpool is scheduled for later this month, and hence, it is the ideal time for Ancelotti to bench his starters, despite the next game being the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid.
According to reports from Diario AS, the coach has decided to field his ‘B team’ against Atletico. The clash would see several key players rested and fringe players given a start.
Lucas Vazquez, Marcelo, and Jesus Vallejo are reportedly set to start in the backline on the night, with Daniel Carvajal, Ferland Mendy, and Eder Militao given a rest.
Meanwhile, it is expected that the veteran trio of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Casemiro start on the bench too. In their place, the likes of Federico Valverde, Dani Ceballos and Eduardo Camavinga could be given a chance.
While the combination in the front three is difficult to predict, Marco Asensio is ready to feature at Wanda Metropolitano. Combeack hero Rodrygo, too, could make the appearance form the get-go.
The Madrid derby has already got into a fair share of controversy after Atletico denied to give their rivals a guard of honour for their 35th league title. While Los Blancos will field a weaker team, it will be interesting to see how the backup players perform under pressure.
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.
