Ahead of the Champions League clash between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti appeared in the press room and gave his first conclusions about the match against the Bavarian side.

"Everything from the past... remains a good memory, but tomorrow is a different story. First game of the semi-final, we are confident considering that we are playing against an opponent that have tools and are very strong. Few in this room thought I could be giving this press conference in this room. We start tomorrow, but bearing in mind that it's a 180-minute tie," he said.

The Italian does not consider his side favourites against Bayern: "No, we are confident... but we have a lot of respect for Bayern. They haven't had a perfect season in the Bundesliga, but they did have a very strong tie against Arsenal. You have to look at the club's history, which is similar to ours. History counts for a lot here."

"Real Madrid are never underestimated in this competition. We feel a lot of respect for us in this competition from everyone," he added.

Ancelotti confirmed Tchouameni's starting place: "Yes, it's true that he hasn't missed a game... but we're also here and he didn't play at the Etihad. He will play tomorrow, where? I don't know."

"I don't think the most important role is played by the coach. Never. There are two categories, those who do nothing and those who do a lot of damage. I try to be in the first group. The players have to understand teamwork. The difference is the team," he said.

He did not comment on the alleged interest in Davies: "I can talk about Mendy, who has suffered an strain, but he is recovered and that makes us very happy. I don't like to talk about the opposition players. I respect everyone.

 

April 29, 2024