Real Madrid closed the season with a goalless draw in Santiago Bernabeu after a pretty nice match. After his side’s draw against Betis, Carlo Ancelotti spoke in a virtual press conference on the final game of the league campaign. The Italian coach made a short analysis of the year and praised the team work and also the individual work of his men.
The Boss said: “I'd give ourselves top marks because it’s been a season where we started well and we’ve finished stronger. We’ve been consistent. Sometimes we've played extremely well and sometimes not so well, but the team’s always shown commitment. We have to praise the individual performances of Courtois, Karim, Vinicius as well as the rest of the squad. The collective work has been excellent and so have the players who have made fewer appearances”.
“The atmosphere’s been incredible and I thank the players for respecting my decisions. They’ve never given up even if they didn't get to play and I’ve benched players who’ve won four Champions League trophies. The atmosphere at Valdebebas has been the difference this season”, he added.
Alaba: “Alaba will be fit for the final. We didn't need to take any risks tonight. He'll rejoin the group on Monday and will be at 100%. It's true that it's been a while since he last played, but in these kinds of games, the fitness aspect isn't the only one that is vital, with ability and experience also playing a role. Davide (Ancelotti) wasn't here tonight because he’s away doing a UEFA Pro course in Wales and he had to go there for two days, but he'll be back on Sunday.”
Marcelo: “He hasn't said his farewells yet because he's still our captain and will be for the final too. If he does say his goodbyes, it'll be a farewell from one of the greats of the world game and one of the best wing-backs on the planet.”
Rodrygo: “He's an important player. He's often made all the difference when he's come off the bench. He's also performed well when he’s started games. It's a decision I have to take officially in the coming days, but I'm already clear on what I'm going to do.”
Isco: “I mentioned to Isco before that he made his debut in my first game here at Madrid and scored a header. This is the end of a fantastic career at Real Madrid. Yes, he could have done more, but he's been an important part of this team in recent years. He's featured in important games and in finals. He's always competed well and proved his quality. I wish him all the best.”
Bale: “He wasn't on the bench tonight because he wasn't fit. He wanted to say farewell to the fans here at the stadium. He's got one last chance because he'll be fit for the final.
Thibaut Courtois also spoke in front of the media after the game. The Belgian kept a clean sheet in the game and had the following to say:“I’d like to thank the fans for always supporting us. That’s why we’re in the final. I hope we can make them happy on Saturday. The intensity levels dropped a bit, the heat doesn’t help. We wanted to get into our rhythm and not pick up any injuries. We’ve done a lot of fitness work this week for one final push and to be at our best, and that’s why the manager rotated the team”.
“Now we have to rest this weekend and on Monday we have to get back to the intensity levels we need for the final. We’re up for it. You don’t get the chance the play in many finals. Madrid haven’t been in many in recent years, but that doesn’t always happen. Getting to the Champions League final is no mean feat and many teams want to win it".
Marcelo: “His contract is up and I don't know what the club will want to do. He's a legend and I hope that we can win the Champions League together on Saturday.”
Bono: “I congratulate him on winning the Zamora Trophy. He's a good friend of mine and I'm delighted for him.”
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