Real Madrid are preparing to face their arch-rivals Barcelona in a heated Clásico in this season’s La Liga clash at the Bernabéu.
The Italian coach believes it is essential to leave Lamine Yamal without space or ideas, as he reads the game well and possesses the talent to score or pass at any moment.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper “Defensa Central,” Ancelotti is aware that Mendy’s current level, even in his defensive position, has not been good at the start of the season.
However, Carlo has full confidence in his ability to neutralize Lamine Yamal in the one-on-one confrontations that will take place between them. “If you play the way you know you can, you will contain him; we trust you,” is the message Carlo sent to his player as he prepares for Saturday’s match.
Real Madrid needs to see the best version of Mendy this season because, otherwise, his presence on the pitch could be detrimental to the team. Everyone knows that if they can restore Mendy’s defensive solidity and confidence at the back, the team will gain significantly. On the other hand, the rivals are aiming for the same goal, which is why Militao is likely to start at right-back.
Solidity is key. Ancelotti insists on recovering this aspect that was present in previous seasons, as the team is not defending well this season. The Italian coach wants to restore the defensive density that characterized past teams while forgetting the mistakes that have occurred.
This is the foundation on which Real Madrid’s football can be built, as there is enough talent in midfield and attack to score many goals.