Real Madrid begins the defense of the Copa del Rey tomorrow in Aranda de Duero against Arandina of the Second Federation without Vinícius, Kroos or Tchouaméni, who are not traveling to recover from their respective discomforts. Nor is Ferland Mendy in the squad, not yet recovered, but Camavinga, injured two months ago, on November 17, is.
The whites don't want surprises. Last season they overcame the first round against Cacereño after a goal from Rodrygo midway through the second half. In Aranda, a pitch in very poor condition and freezing weather awaits them, although snow is not expected during the match.
Despite being the current champion, Madrid does not have a very good relationship with the Cup, a competition that it has traditionally seen as minor and in which it has had failures that are remembered, such as the 4-0 in Alcorcón, the elimination in Toledo, against the Real Unión de Irún, Leganés or in Cádiz due to improper alignment of Cheryshev. All this was mentioned to Ancelotti, who said he made a positive impression: "This competition gave us a lot of happiness last year. We will try to win it like then because it interests us a lot. Tomorrow we will try to do our best. Due to fatigue I will make some changes, but we will be competitive just the same," he assured.
Regarding the eleven that will play in Aranda Ancelotti made it clear that Kepa will be the goalkeeper and Nacho (suspended against Mallorca) one of the centre-backs. He clarified very little about the rest. The youth player Álvaro Carrillo is emerging as Nacho's companion since Rüdiger is the player on the squad with the most minutes. Another option would be Carvajal, with Lucas Vázquez at left back. He also said that Arda Güler could have minutes and even that he could start.
Asked if he had asked for any gift from Kings to Florentino Pérez, Ancelotti denied it: "No. I have a very good relationship with him and I have not asked him for more than what he has already given me. He is giving me everything in terms of affection ".
Ancelotti once again praised Jude Bellingham: "He is doing very well, especially considering that he had to adapt to a new culture, a new language... Obviously, for us he is the best in the world."
The match against Mallorca on Wednesday was the third that Madrid has played with the Bernabéu covered. Ancelotti likes the experience: "The sound is different. There is a better atmosphere. I think this can push and help the team," he commented.
