Ancelotti Eyes Champions League Success as Real Madrid Dominates RB Salzburg

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team’s attacking prowess after a commanding 5-1 victory over RB Salzburg in the Champions League on Wednesday. The defending champions showcased their dominance at the Bernabeu, extending their impressive run of 14 goals in their last three matches.

Ancelotti, speaking to Movistar, emphasized that the team achieved its objective of winning while playing a strong game. “We tried to fix the rest, because the efficiency we have up front is incredible,” he said. “The other things have to be fixed. Sometimes we do it well and sometimes less so. But we’re on a good run.”

The Italian coach also addressed concerns about the team’s defense, particularly after conceding a late goal when the match was already decided. “I am not angry about the goal,” Ancelotti stated. “At the back, we did well. [Antonio] Rudiger was very good today, [David] Alaba is back, [Raul] Asencio is fine. It is a collective problem. If we can have collective commitment, we will be successful.”

Ancelotti’s decision to substitute midfielder Jude Bellingham in the second half raised eyebrows, but the coach clarified that the move was precautionary. “Bellingham had a back problem, but it was nothing special,” he explained. “I had the possibility of taking minutes away from someone, and I took them away from Bellingham to keep him fresher.”

Looking ahead, Ancelotti hinted at the importance of Saturday’s La Liga clash against Real Valladolid, where Madrid aims to maintain its two-point lead at the top of the table. However, the coach also turned his attention to the Champions League, where he expressed relief at Manchester City‘s recent struggles. “It would be good news to get City out of the way now,” Ancelotti remarked. “For me, they are one of the candidates to win the Champions League again.”

Manchester City, managed by former FC Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola, suffered a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, putting their league phase hopes in jeopardy. Ancelotti acknowledged the challenge of facing Guardiola’s side but remained optimistic about Madrid’s chances. “We will be able to take advantage of the quality up front,” he concluded.