(foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Real Madrid will have a fully fit squad, including Jude Bellingham, ahead of the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona.
The Italian coach addressed the media on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming "Clasico".
Bellingham raised concerns after limping off in the semi-final, but Ancelotti assured fans of his availability: "He's fine, he's recovered well. It was a normal load of games. It's very important because he's on a good run. He's a player who has made a difference."
The stakes are high for Real Madrid, who enter the final after losing the last Clasico 0-4. Ancelotti reflected on that defeat: "We have to think about the first game we played. We made a pretty clear assessment. We started well and went down in the second half. We have to avoid the mistakes we made."
The Italian coach highlighted the special nature of facing Barcelona, especially in a final: "A 'Clasico' is always a 'Clasico,' even more so if it's a final. Playing against Barcelona is always special."
Discussing the key to recent clashes with their historic rivals, Ancelotti pointed out the importance of quality and balance: "Quality prevails compared to the balance of the team. That's one of the reasons. An important aspect will be balance and collective work."
He remained optimistic about the team’s chances, stating that while a defeat wouldn’t be ideal, it wouldn't derail their progress: "It's a final, we're very close to another title and we're thinking positive. I am aware that anything can happen in football. Especially when the opponent competes the way they have competed. A defeat wouldn't be good, but the team is moving forward."
Finally, Ancelotti reiterated the respect he has for their long-time rivals: "Barca are a historic rival. They are very complicated matches. It's difficult for us, difficult for them. You can't predict the result. We will try to do our best and win another title."