Carlo Ancelotti spoke openly to the media after Real Madrid’s impressive 5-2 win over Celta Vigo, a result that secured their place in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. The Italian coach shared his thoughts on the team’s performance, highlighting the contributions of key players Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé.
Regarding Vinicius Jr.’s substitution, Ancelotti explained, “Vini was exhausted. He was crucial in attack alongside Mbappé, and his early contributions were vital. I replaced him with Rodrygo, who brought new energy to the game.” Vinicius had been in superb form, creating chaos for Celta Vigo’s defense with his attacking runs before being taken off.
Ancelotti was equally full of praise for Kylian Mbappé, who put in one of his best performances of the season. “Mbappé is back to his best,” Ancelotti said. “He’s playing exceptionally well, scoring goals, and constantly putting pressure on defenders. His impact on the field is immense.”
This match further cemented Mbappé’s return to form after a slower start to the season. Since joining Real Madrid, the French forward has faced heavy scrutiny, but his recent performances have silenced his critics. His finishing and blistering pace were on full display against Celta Vigo, reaffirming his importance to the team.
Ancelotti also addressed the need for squad rotation going forward. “Managing player freshness will be crucial as we progress in the competition,” he said. With multiple competitions to navigate, the veteran coach stressed the importance of keeping his players energized and motivated.
While Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé were the standout performers, the win was a team effort. Luka Modric, at 39, showed once again why he is timeless, orchestrating the midfield and providing key assists.
Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga excelled in a deeper role, showcasing his defensive skills and adaptability.
