Real Madrid News
Carlo Ancelotti talks Modric, World Cup, and their group ahead of Celtic vs Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s defence of the Champions League begins tomorrow as Carlo Ancelotti’s men travel to Glasgow to take on Scottish defending champs Celtic. Los Blancos are so far unscathed in La Liga and will hope they can bridge that winning run into the UCL.
Much like last season, Madrid have been mostly written off for this UCL season as well. Ancelotti certainly still believes they are the biggest club in the world, and spoke to the media ahead of their trip to the UK.
On the Real Madrid-UCL connection: “Real Madrid have always been respected in this competition, not only because we won it last season.”
On the World Cup: “Now we only think about the group stages, we don’t know what will happen after the World Cup.”
“I think we won’t have a problem until the World Cup. The doubt is how players will return after it.”
On Celtic: “Celtic are not going to change their attitude tomorrow. They’ll play attacking football but we are not worried about defending.”
On Real Madrid not being favourites: “I’m not surprised, it’s good. We will compete until the end, as always. Hopefully, we will play in the final again.”
On their ‘easy’ group: “It’s not an easy group. Celtic are doing very well and we respect them. Same for Leipzig and Shakhtar. There are always surprises in the group stages.”
“We all remember what happened against Sheriff last season. Anything can happen.”
On Luka Modric: “He’s still one of the best midfielders. He has not had big injuries during his career and this allows him to be this good at 36.”
“He will turn 37 this week and will have a big birthday party. I hope I get invited (laughs).”
“There is no explanation for him. He’s a fantastic player, with a great attitude, great quality.”
Source: Real Madrid TV
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
