Ancelotti talks Vinicius, Bellingham, Asencio, Valverde, Rudiger ahead of Osasuna vs Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid will be back in action in La Liga tomorrow as they take on CA Osasuna away at El Sadar, hoping to open up a lead at the top of the table.

Los Blancos have ended up dropping points in each of their last two league games, losing to Espanyol before being held to a draw by Atletico Madrid.

So, it will be important for the Merengues to get back to winning ways in the league, given that Atletico and Barcelona are just one and two points behind, respectively.

Ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Pamplona, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media, addressing various topics, including Vinicius Jr.’s links to Saudi Arabia.

Kicking off, Ancelotti opened up on the team’s mindset going into tomorrow’s game, saying: “We are well motivated. It’s a chance to keep the lead, but it will be difficult. We came out of Manchester well and it’s time to consolidate our feelings.”

On the importance of winning tomorrow’s match, he added: “This team understands very well when to push. And tomorrow… the league is very tight.”

When asked why Real Madrid find it difficult to win back-to-back La Liga titles, Ancelotti remarked:

“It’s difficult to say, but the competition is very fierce. There are teams like Atlético and Barcelona who are very tough, they fight for it every year. It’s not easy to repeat, because of the competitiveness.”

On the Vinicius Jr. issue

The chat quickly moved to Vinicius, who has been in the headlines of late with talks of a possible move to Saudi Arabia gaining weight.

“I’m tired, yes, but I’m not worried. I see him happy and we are happy with him. It’s a subject that is talked about outside, not here. Neither does he,” said Ancelotti on the matter.

“Vinicius is eager to do well, as he did in Manchester and he will continue, because he is starting to be in good physical shape, after the injuries. I see him very motivated. Against City he was under a lot of pressure and he made the difference.”

On whether he thinks that the Brazilian should always play for Real Madrid, the Italian replied: “It’s a question… I can only comment on what I see, a happy player who wants to make history at this club.”

Vinicius is being linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

When asked about the reports that Real Madrid are upset with Vinicius’ recent comments on his renewal and future, Ancelotti noted: “I’m not aware of it.”

On if he thinks Saudi Arabia is a real threat to European football, the Italian remarked:

“Arabia’s situation should come as no surprise. They are hosting the 2034 World Cup and they are in a competitive momentum, although less so than Europe, as of today…. But in the future, we’ll see. Me going? Why not. If I want to stay in football, why not.”

On the rest of the squad

Ancelotti also discussed the form and attitude of Jude Bellingham, claiming that he can be a leader of the team.

“He has personality and character. He is very young and has everything to be one of the leaders of this club,” said Ancelotti.

There was also some discussion about Raul Asencio and whether Ancelotti believes that the youngster is ready to become an undisputed starter.

“There are no indisputable players here. But he’s showing a personality, a character against demanding and strong opponents… he’s doing very well and, of course, he’ll compete with the rest to be a starter,” noted the manager.

The Real Madrid boss also confirmed that Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Lucas Vazquez will be ready to face Manchester City next week, saying:

“They are improving. They will continue with individual work until Monday and will be available against City. Including Lucas Vazquez.”

Ancelotti also confirmed that Federico Valverde will continue at right-back until Lucas Vazquez is back, saying:

“Valverde will stay until Lucas returns. He brings a lot and I liked him against City. He likes this position, in fact. Tomorrow we’ll continue with him.”

Source: AS