Ancelotti: “The Villarreal match is important to maintain our competitive rhythm”
“There are two weeks left to get the team into perfect shape ahead of the Champions League final,” said the Italian.
Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the press in the media room at Real Madrid City to assess the LaLiga champion's trip to face Villarreal on matchday 37 (Sunday, 7:00pm CEST): “We're taking this as preparation for the final on the 1st of June. We'll travel with a full squad and we're considering it a very important game to maintain our competitive rhythm, as well as a good attitude and feeling around the place. Villarreal have a lot to play for in the game and our goal is to keep up our positive run."
“I have no doubts about what I have to do in the run-up to the 1st of June. We have to try and make sure the full squad, every player, is in the best possible shape. Then it's about making the right decisions that help us win the game. There's no uncertainty, we've had this week to rest up and now there are two weeks left to get the team in perfect condition for the final."
Will Modrić and Kroos stay at the club?
“I'm always optimistic. What you're talking about are issues that take a back seat for us at the moment, they don't matter. We're focused on what we have to do, including the two LaLiga games we have left. Everything regarding the future will be discussed after the final."
“I have never had any problems with Modrić because beyond being a top player, one of the best central midfielders in the world, he's an even better person. Neither I with him, nor he with me, there have never been any issues and there won't be either because we have immense respect for each other."
Goalkeepers
“There is no debate for me. As I've said, the doubts come from your side... Lunin has had a fantastic season, he's really helped us reach the final and Courtois is making his way back to what he was before the injury, the best in the world. Lunin will play tomorrow.”
The transition between youngsters and veterans
“It's been a fairly smooth transition so far, and that may or may not continue. The transition will continue next year."
What is Kroos like?
“As a guy, he's very German and I feel German myself in that sense. I don't talk much, I prefer to listen, and I think the same goes for him. When he has something to say, he speaks very clearly. He's also a person who doesn't have many doubts, he's pretty sure of himself, honest and sincere. He's the kind of guy I love because I feel a bit German myself."
The dangers of relaxing
“The best way to prepare for the final game we have is to continue playing at 100%. We did that very well against Granada and Alavés. You'll see it again in tomorrow's game. I haven't had much to say in these last couple of games, we've scored nine goals and conceded zero. I'm considering saying even less because it seems to be working.”
Will Militão start the final?
“Having seen him in the last couple of games, he looks pretty close to being back at 100%. He looks in great shape, he's really come on. He needed minutes and now he's getting them. He'll be playing tomorrow as well. I think he's close to being back at his best and so of course, he's an option for us and he may play."
Xavi
“It's difficult to discuss it. All I can say is that I have a lot of respect for Xavi, firstly as a person and secondly as a coach. The job he's done since arriving at Barcelona has, in my opinion, been good. I wish him all the best for the future."