Ancelotti discusses Real Madrid squad ahead of Champions League debut

In a recent press conference, Carlo Ancelotti spoke about the changes in the Real Madrid squad as they prepare for their Champions League debut in the 2024/2025 season. He highlighted the departures of key players Nacho and Toni Kroos, which have posed challenges for the team. However, Ancelotti was optimistic about the addition of Kylian Mbappe, whom he described as one of the best players in the world, suggesting that this could enhance the squad's overall quality. Ancelotti acknowledged the difficulties faced in the early stages of La Liga, where the team is currently trailing behind FC Barcelona. He noted that while Kroos is irreplaceable, he believes the remaining players can perform well and adapt to the situation. The coach emphasized the importance of looking forward and focusing on the upcoming matches rather than dwelling on past losses. The coach also reflected on the compressed preseason schedule, which has made preparation more challenging. He pointed out that the traditional five-week preparation period has been significantly shortened, impacting player readiness. Despite these hurdles, Ancelotti is determined to ensure the team evolves and competes at a high level, aiming to defend their titles both domestically and in Europe. As Real Madrid gears up for their first match against Stuttgart in the Champions League, Ancelotti's passion for the competition remains evident. He expressed his motivation in managing the team and dealing with daily challenges, indicating a strong commitment to achieving success this season.