"No preparation time" – Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid's demanding schedule

Real Madrid are set to face Manchester City in the Champions League knockout playoff round, and head coach Carlo Ancelotti has spoken about the team's challenging fixture schedule.

Details: The Italian manager admitted that preparing for matches is extremely difficult given the packed schedule, with games every three days. As a result, there is virtually no time for preparation, forcing him to rotate the squad to keep players fresh.

Quote: "In an ideal situation, we wouldn’t have to play these extra Champions League matches, but we failed to make the top eight. Two more games don’t make a difference—we have the resources to handle it," Ancelotti stated.

Interestingly, the Real Madrid coach has also voiced his opposition to the new competition format.

Reminder: Pep Guardiola recently remarked that the Manchester City vs Real Madrid matchup now feels like a derby, as the two clubs will meet in the Champions League knockout stage for the fourth consecutive season.

Today, all UEFA Champions League preliminary playoff round matchups for the 2024/25 season were confirmed.