For Wednesday’s Champions League match against RB Salzubrg, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti will start four substitutes.
As a result of shocking losses to AC Milan and Lille in the first season of the new league phase format, the Italian has accepted that the reigning champions will likely face a play-off to advance to the round of 16. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona, their bitter rivals, secured their spot in the round of 16 with a thrilling comeback victory over Benfica.
To advance automatically, we need to win the two games that are still to come. We are accustomed to the tough schedule, but if we are involved in the playoff match, we will give it our all,” the Italian said.
The story that Onda Cero has broken is that Ancelotti has told Madrid that he will be leaving at the conclusion of the season, not fulfilling a contract that is due to expire in mid-2026. This will undoubtedly cast a shadow over the match.
“Let me be crystal clear. During Tuesday’s prematch press conference, Ancelotti made it clear that he would never, ever settle on a departure date from the club.
That day will arrive, but I can’t say when just yet. Making a decision is not within my power. In a couple games tomorrow, a year from now, or perhaps five years from now.
“Florentino [Perez] will remain here for four more years and my goal is to reach Florentino’s four years,” Ancelotti stated with a smile, bringing up the club’s recently re-elected president and leader. “And so we say goodbye together…”
