Ancelotti: "The match was very good, we were aggressive and compact"

 

Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media following the win against Malaga at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid’s coach was pleased with the three points and was happy with his players’ performance: "The match was good, I liked the team's attitude. We defended well, we were more aggressive and compact and had lots of chances to score. The match was very good. I hope to see the same intensity in the upcoming matches". 

Real Madrid clearly dominated the match against Malaga and could have scored more goals. Ancelotti highlighted the defensive performance: "We worked more defensively, everyone was focused on defending, we pressed well and recovered possession quickly. That was the difference compared to other matches, we did not give them chances and we were well positioned on the field". The Whites now have two important matches against Juventus and Barcelona. "Today I am happy, we have to keep going and keep improving, but the team has done well today, the week has started well" said Ancelotti.

The Italian mentioned several players by name. He first spoke about Bale’s position and his chances of  playing in the upcoming matches: "He started on the left because we had Di Maria on and Cristiano was working hard, but Cristiano was not going to change position. Then, when Jese went on, they changed wings. Bale has no problems and is another option. We will see now that we have three days of training before the next match".

About Illarra, he said: "He has improved, he had a very good match, he has worked hard the last 15 days and improved his fitness". He also highlighted Morata and Carvajal: "I do not know if they will start the next match, they had a good match, especially the attitude they showed. Morata was very dangerous and worked hard in attack and defence". He also explained Benzema’s niggles: "He had a problem, a blow to the calf, was not fit to play and hopefully we can get him back for Wednesday". Then he referred to Varane’s absence: "We hope that he is available on Wednesday, he trained in the morning and was fine".

When asked about Cristiano Ronaldo, who apologised to the supporters, he said: "He was not happy because he wanted to score, he had chances and I said that the today it was just not his day, but he showed a cool mind in scoring the penalty because when it is not your day, it is not difficult to miss a penalty". Regarding Isco, he said: "He surprised everyone with his start to the season. He did not have an exceptional match today, maybe he is not in optimal form, but I have confidence, he is a great player and helps the team".