Ancelotti Confident Ahead of Showdown with Barcelona for Three Trophies

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team’s upcoming matches against Barcelona, despite the Catalans being a formidable opponent. The two clubs are set to meet in crucial competitions, with Madrid trailing Barcelona by three points in La Liga and preparing for a Copa del Rey final on April 26.

During a press conference on Friday, Ancelotti addressed concerns regarding the potential impact of the Spanish government’s decision to allow players Dani Olmo and Víctor to continue playing for Barcelona amid opposition from the Spanish Football Federation. He remarked, “No, I don’t believe so. We are happy to play in a great final and be closer to another aim. We have a lot of respect for Barcelona just as they have for us. Barcelona are playing well; they are in a good dynamic.”

Madrid recently advanced to the Copa del Rey final after securing a thrilling 5-4 aggregate victory over their opponents, evidencing their competitive spirit and determination.

“We have to be optimistic,” Ancelotti stated. “The team is fighting, and we are alive in every competition. We are very close. We have confidence also because of the experience we’ve had in the past. We are motivated. It’s an important time of the season.”

The coach also downplayed reports of a goalkeeping crisis affecting the team. Key goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois missed the last two games due to a muscular issue but is expected to return soon. “We are not worried at all,” Ancelotti said. “Courtois is a lot better. We believe he can be available for Tuesday’s game.” If Lunin, who started in the recent match-up, is unable to play due to a minor problem, Ancelotti expressed trust in his young third-string goalkeeper to step up.

Ancelotti’s remarks came amid an ongoing UEFA investigation into player conduct during a recent Champions League match against Manchester City, where tensions escalated during a penalty shootout. This adds another layer of pressure on both clubs as they navigate through this busy and intense season.