Real Madrid Coach Ancelotti Responds Strongly to La Liga Chief Before Derby
Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti fired back at La Liga president Javier Tebas during a press conference ahead of Saturday’s crucial derby against Atletico Madrid.
Tebas had claimed on Thursday that Real Madrid had “lost their minds” following their reaction to a refereeing controversy in last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Espanyol.
When asked about Tebas’ comments, Ancelotti dismissed the notion, stating, “Tebas can relax because no one here has lost their minds. We have simply asked for explanations and changes to a system that no one is happy with. People believe the system favors Real Madrid, but when we complain, no one takes us seriously.”
Looking ahead to the derby, Ancelotti described it as a “very important match” between two teams fighting for the title. “It will be competitive and hard-fought, as always. Atletico has the quality to challenge for the title, just like we do,” he added.
Still reeling from heavy defeats to Barcelona in the Super Cup (5-2) and La Liga (4-0), Ancelotti acknowledged that his side has struggled against strong opponents this season. “We haven’t shown our best version in these big games. We need these three points—they’re crucial for the league,” he said.
A win would put Real Madrid four points clear, while a loss would see Atletico move two points ahead. Ancelotti confirmed that Lucas Vazquez and Eduardo Camavinga would be available, resolving doubts about the lineup.
Addressing the team’s defensive crisis with Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba injured, Ancelotti admitted they are in an “emergency situation” at the back, which also complicates preparations for next week’s Champions League tie against Manchester City.
“We’re in February, still far from the end of the season. Rudiger and Alaba will return soon. In the meantime, we’ve adapted by bringing in young academy players and shifting positions. It hasn’t been ideal, but we have to manage the crisis while getting results. We’re still leading,” Ancelot
ti concluded.
