Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the press ahead of the Champions League final against Liverpool at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday night.
Liverpool arrive into the game with injury doubts; Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are just returning from injuries, while midfielders Thiago Alcântara and Fabinho are also doubts to start. In quotes picked up by AS, Ancelotti reminisced on Madrid’s 2014 final vs Atlético, when Los Blancos arrived with similar injury problems.
“We had problems in 2014. Several players were injured but we managed to win. This (the injuries) won’t affect them. It’s the last game of the season and they’re going to give it their all.”
When asked if it felt different to the 2014 final, Ancelotti said: “Each game has its own history and its own strategy. The motivation is the same, but maybe there is a little less concern. The Lisbon game was the key to all the success that followed for Real Madrid. In that sense, this final is different.”
Ancelotti stated that his side deserved to be in the final: “We deserve to reach the final; for our quality, because without it you cannot get here, and our commitment. The history of the club has pushed us forwards in times of difficulty. To win it, we will have to deserve it tomorrow.”
Ancelotti also praised Benzema’s evolution as a leader.
“Karim has grown as a leader on and off the pitch. What hasn’t changed is his quality and humility.”
