Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media gathered in the press room at the Santiago Bernabéu following Real Madrid's win over Elche in the postponed LaLiga matchday 21 fixture. Real Madrid played a great game, making it clear since the beginning who would be the winner. With goals from Asensio, 2 x Benzema and a beautiful one from Modric, Real Madrid made strong return to La Liga, restored the 8 point difference with Barcelona and will try to put pressure on them as much as possible. The coach stated the importance of getting victories and making great performances to build confidence and improve the physical shape.
He said: "Every game and instants within them are good to build your confidence. Each moment can affect the atmosphere slightly. When you're 3-0 up you relax a bit and that can cause problems, I don't want to see it. We're feeling better and it's important to keep up this good run. Our players are made for it, they have no issues with playing top-level games. I have faith in all of them and I pick the best possible line-up taking into account injuries, fatigue…"
The squad's physical shape: "We're taking advantage of all these games to improve each player's fitness. It's obvious the team is getting better and playing matches helps you to fine-tune their condition. There's no other way to do it".
Camavinga in central midfield: "I rested guys who played in the final and I wanted to bring fresh legs into the middle of the park. Nothing special. Camavinga is in better shape because Tchouameni is just on his way back. Tchouameni will play in Pamplona".
Bernabéu applause for Ceballos: "He is doing what a footballer has to do - being professional, disciplined and making the most of the time I am giving him. He's doing a fantastic job and we're delighted with him. For the Bernabéu to recognise it does him the world of good".
Alaba at Left-back: "He is more used to playing at full-back than Camavinga. He enjoys playing out wide more. He did a good job today because Rodrygo was coming in through the middle. Alaba has a career in this position under his belt and he hasn't forgotten how to play there".
Asensio: "He is looking sharp. I don't yet know if he's going to stay or not. He has a contract and I'm not overly concerned because we have some very important challenges this season and he is contributing. He will make the right decision together with the club".
Rodrygo's versatility: "He is more used to playing on the left, but he is a complete player and can play in any position up front. He started in that position, but he's different to Vini Jr. because he comes in more through the centre and leaves more space out wide. We are lucky to have both of them".
Modrić: "For us they are all important and I have to rotate because the season is very demanding. Modrić is finding his best level and the statistics will show Kroos came on against Bilbao and scored, as did Luka today. They can contribute with goals from the bench, although I'm not 100% sure if they agree, but the statistics are there".
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