Sunday’s Clasico will see Carlo Ancelotti go up against Xavi Hernandez and the veteran coach has been impressed with what the Catalan is doing at Barcelona.
Ahead of Sunday’s game between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Ancelotti was asked how the Blaugrana had changed under a new coach.
“Barcelona’s ownership does not change, as the club has a clear style,” said the Italian international.
“Xavi fits in well with this style and the team has developed a lot under him.
“They’re a perfect team and they play well. My opinion is that you do a good job.”
While praising Xavi’s work at Barcelona and his insistence that the Blaugrana play team style, Ancelotti said he did not want to have a style set for his teams.
“Football is not just one style, in my opinion,” he said
“I want my teams to be able to have different IDs, I have always tried to use styles where my players feel comfortable.
“Real Madrid’s style should depend on the characteristics of the players.”
Continuing to talk more about Sunday’s game, Ancelotti confirmed that Karim Benzema was missing and was asked about possible replacements.
“Benzema is a very important member of our team, so now we have to look for solutions as we will not have him,” said the coach.
“I have already decided [who will replace him], but I will not disclose that here.
“We have the options of [Gareth] Bale, Mariano and [Luke] Jovic, and Isco or Rodrygo have played there too.
“There are so many to choose from. I have chosen the ones I think are best for this game.”
Ancelotti also emphasized that he was not overly concerned about Benzema’s injuries and that he was happy it was time for international leave.
“I think the injury came at a good time, as we now have two weeks off sports to recover,” the coach added.
“He will come back strong until the end of the campaign.”
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