Ancelotti talks Valverde, Mbappe, Asencio, Brahim, January transfer plans ahead of Leganes vs Real Madrid

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has shared insights into the team’s current situation ahead of their away game against Leganes.

One of the key talking points was the right-back position, which has been a bit of a challenge for the team.

Ancelotti explained that the coaching staff had been trying different solutions during training, including the possibility of using Federico Valverde in that role.

Valverde as a right-back is just one of the options the team is exploring. Ancelotti made it clear that they have experimented with various ideas during the international break.

However, he intends to make the final decision based on what will work best for the team in the upcoming match. This approach reflects the manager’s flexibility in finding the most effective solution for Real Madrid.

“Valverde at full-back is an option, we have tried some things in this break but tomorrow I will try to choose the best one for the team, “ the manager began saying.

Chances for homegrown players

Another topic Ancelotti addressed was the integration of homegrown players into the first team. While he emphasized the importance of the youth academy, he made it clear that his primary responsibility is to field the best team possible.

“It’s not difficult to give minutes to the players from the academy, but my responsibility is to make the best team possible.”

Ancelotti also stated that the objective isn’t to give minutes to academy players just for the sake of it but to ensure they are part of the team when necessary.

“The youth academy is an important part of this club, I don’t want to question the club’s planning, which has been very good. The homegrown players will be there, but giving minutes is not the objective.”

Questions on Mbappe

Ancelotti also spoke about Kylian Mbappe, who has been working hard to improve his fitness. The manager praised the French forward for his efforts and expressed confidence that Mbappe would soon return to his best form.

“He’s had the opportunity to come in and he’s improved his condition. Hopefully, he can show it tomorrow,” said the manager.

He mentioned that while all strikers go through difficult patches, Mbappe remains motivated and happy, and it’s only a matter of time before he starts scoring again.

“All strikers have had a bad run, if they don’t score they get frustrated. I see him motivated and happy to train with his teammates. 

“Sooner or later the run will stop. Tomorrow he will have a great game because it is just a matter of time. He has incredible quality and sooner or later he will show it.”

The manager noted that Mbappe has never requested a fixed position in the team, and all attackers are flexible, with their roles often changing depending on match situations.

“Kylian has never asked me for a position on the pitch. They all want to be in the starting eleven, they don’t have a fixed position and can be changed depending on the match situations.”

Ancelotti reassured everyone that Mbappe’s mental health is not an issue, stating that the forward seems calm and happy, and it is unfair to speculate about anything else.

“I see him happy, calm, content, it doesn’t seem like he has any mental problems. I think it’s too bad to speculate about this,” he noted.

The manager also explained how the team trained during the international break. “Mbappe has worked with the others, we have focused on defence, with Raul Asencio, Mendy, trying out right-backs. 

“I’m not going to teach him to play as a striker, he can teach me. Does Mbappé need defensive work? I don’t think so.”

Impact of Raul Asencio

On other players, Ancelotti highlighted the progress of Raul Asencio, who has impressed after his debut.

“He’s doing very well after his debut. He’s prepared and physically ready to compete. He’s excited and motivated, I see him doing very well.”

The manager also noted the growing responsibility of younger players like Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham.

“There are some who are taking more responsibility. Valverde, Camavinga, Vinicius, Bellingham… it is a process that needs time. 

“We have lost Carvajal who is an important piece although he is always with us. Everyone is aware that he is an important point,” said Ancelotti.

Brahim Diaz and January plan

Brahim Diaz, returning from injury, is another player Ancelotti is counting on. Diaz is in excellent form, having scored goals and is expected to play an important role in the team, especially in helping with the midfield and the wing.

“He’s back from injury and he’s back in very good shape. He’s scored goals, he’s back in extraordinary condition. 

“He will be important for us, he plays on the wing, and he helps the midfield. He’s very important for us, like last year. I think he’ll play even more.”

Finally, Ancelotti addressed the winter transfer window. He revealed that after the game against Sevilla in December, the club would evaluate their options and make decisions about potential signings.

“After the game against Sevilla in December we will consider what to do during the winter transfer window,” concluded the manager.

The manager’s focus, for now, is on putting together the best team for each match and managing the busy schedule.

Source: AS