Real Madrid News
Ancelotti talks Benzema, Alvaro, Modric, Kroos ahead of Real Betis vs Real Madrid
Coming into the Barcelona clash in rather impressive form, Real Madrid were not able to see off their arch-rivals at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semis.
They will not hope to win back the confidence of the capital faithful when they take the trip to Sevilla to take on Real Betis for La Liga gameweek 24.
Manuel Pellegrini’s men are heading into the game in impressive form, having won their last three games on the bounce while scoring eight goals. They are within two points of Atletico Madrid and within four of Real Sociedad, and will look to make the most of their chances tomorrow.
Ahead of the game, Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media as part of press conference, the quotes from which have been brought to you by Madrid Universal.
On Modric: “That’s not a problem, because he will do what he has to do. He has talked to the club and will make the best decision.”
On the Clasico: “I repeat what I said, we played a good game. Obviously, there are things we can fix.”
On Real Betis: “No margin for error. They are very good, we must be perfect.”
On Ferland Mendy: “He will be back next week.”
On their attack: “There is no problem with the attack, we just scored five at Anfield.”
“We have scored the most goals in La Liga. Offensively, we don’t have a problem.”
On Karim Benzema: “I see him in good physical condition.”
On Aurelien Tchouameni: “Let’s not forget that Tchouameni surprise us in the first stage with his rapid adaption. He was brilliant, and will regain his best version. I have no doubt about that.”
On Modric-Kroos criticisms: “These players make the ball run, they don’t need to run.”
“I don’t think Modric and Kroos slowed the game down. They are very intelligent.”
On Rodrygo: “Rodrygo is the player who can help us vs low blocks in tight spaces, of course.”
On Eder Militao: “He is the best centre-back in the world.”
On starting Benzema and Alvaro together: “4-4-2 with Benzema and Alvaro? Yes, of course, it’s a possibility.”
“Alvaro is training very well. He has a bright future.”
Source: Real Madrid TV
Although Antonio Rudiger has had success since joining Real Madrid last summer, the club are in need of more depth and players that can form the backbone of the defensive unit in the years to come.
As part of their plans, Real Madrid are prioritising a move for Josko Gvardiol in the coming summer, reports 90 Min.
The outlet suggests Gvardiol will be one of the most wanted prospects in the market, with both Real Madrid and Manchester City eyeing a move for the Croatian international come the end of the season.
Formerly of Dinamo Zagreb, Gvardiol has enjoyed immense success since his move to the Bundesliga in 2021. He has impressed onlookers with his skill, organisation and discipline, which, coupled with his versatility, make him an appealing target for any European giant.
Gvardiol was also one of the top performers at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, helping Croatia finish third in the competition. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid among the clubs who have been keeping an eye on the defender for a while now.
However, signing Gvardiol will be a tricky task for Los Blancos. The player still has a long-term contract at Leipzig and could cost up to €85 million, as reported by 90 Min. Not to mention, the competition from Man City could be significant.
Real Madrid have no shortage of alternatives, though, with the club notably closely monitoring Portuguese defensive whizkid Antonio Silva, among others. So it will be interesting to see how the Spanish giants approach the market in this coming summer.
