Carlo Ancelotti knows that Wednesday's match against Arsenal is not a game for half measures. Win or win by more than three goals. The Italian coach asks his players to show some guts.
The Role of the Fans
-Obviously, it's very important. Their support has helped us a lot on many occasions. Especially in recent years.
Ancelotti Applies Alcaraz's Principles
The Match He Foresees
-We need a match at our highest level because only then can we turn around a very complicated tie. With head, heart... with guts, as Alcaraz says, and I like it a lot.
The Team's Motivation
-The team is excited, motivated. In terms of commitment, mentally, we're doing very well. Let's not forget that it will be important to keep a cool head because we will have to control the match.
"Things Happen at Bernabéu"
Things Happen at Bernabéu
―Because Real Madrid has all the resources to come back: quality, commitment, experience, fans... the resources are there. The only thing left is for each individual to bring out their best version...
...In past years, they also said we didn't play spectacular soccer. And it may be true. But more than spectacular, what Real Madrid wants is to play effective soccer.
His Future Is at Stake in This Match
I'll answer directly: I don't think so.
How Does Ancelotti Approach the Match?
Focused, with a very cool head. It's not my first night like this in this competition... and hopefully, it won't be the last because the Champions League is something very special in my life...
...More than concern, what I feel is excitement. To be a protagonist, from the bench, in a match like this. This excitement allows me to keep a very cool head.
"Magic Doesn't Exist"
Thomas Says "The Atmosphere at Bernabéu Won't Be Very Different from What We Experienced in England"
The atmosphere at Bernabéu has helped us and will help us a lot. But it's normal for an opponent coming to this stadium to say something like that: the field is always the same, like the color of the grass... (smiles) but what's around, they'll see it's an atmosphere that pushes.
What Will You Tell Your Players Before the Match?
I just want to explain the strategy clearly. We've thought a lot about this match and we continue to do so. In fact, we're going to try something in training now...
...And I want the player to enter the field with a very clear idea. I'm going to use my time simply to explain clearly what the strategy will be. If a player has it clear, they can deliver a better individual performance.
Do You Have Any Surprises Up Your Sleeve?
―Nothing special, but obviously, we'll try to play an intense match. With more pressure and control than at the Emirates. But there won't be any magic; magic doesn't exist.
What Have You Told the Players So Far?
―I've talked to them about the emotional aspect, the motivation. About how we should live this lead-up. The motivation is there; I just wish the player is convinced, has the strategy clear, and goes to try absolutely everything...
...The only thing we don't have for sure is that we're going to come back. But it is certain that we're going to give it our all.
"We Need Mbappé's Goals"
Does Youth Play in Arsenal's Favor?
―It's also a very organized team. Arteta has been working with this group for a while, so they have very clear ideas, both in defense and attack. And they are very focused on what they have to do and not on the outside environment.
What Do You Expect from Your Players Tomorrow: To Run, or to Make a Difference?
We need a bit of everything. A good combination of these players' enormous quality and collective attitude. To come back, neither can fail.
How Is Mbappé?
He's hurt, disappointed by what happened. We need him tomorrow because this isn't just about defending, we have to score. And he, this season, has scored many, and tomorrow we need them more than ever.
Do You Also Think It's Important to Score Early?
―I don't think it's definitive. Although, of course, it would be important; as it will be to come out focused from the first minute. But the key will be to control the match because once you have it, you can score at any moment.