Real Madrid host David Moyes managed Real Sociedad today and coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Illaramendi, who was close to joining Athletic Bilbao this week, and new signing Lucas Silva will get a playing time in this game.
Cristiano Ronaldo is banned for two matches and he will not be available for selection. And Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed in his press conference that Asier Illaramendi will start the game in absence of Ronaldo. Ancelotti also revealed in his press conference that the Basque midfielder refused to move to Athletic Bilbao.
a It’s true that we received an offer from Athletic, but Illara is happy here. He’s evaluated his situation and wants to stay here. We are happy with him. He hasn’t played much but has shown great professionalism and has done well whenever he has come on,a said Ancelotti
a Illarra will start and Lucas Silva might get a run outa , said the coach.
“Lucas Silva has incorporated well with group, he’s in good physical shape although he’s not at peak fitness yet because his season only began on 7 January. He’s in good form, he’s part of the squad and could get a run outa .
Cristiano Ronaldo is banned for two games for his foul on a last match day and the Real Madrid boss said that he will see out his suspension and come back strongly.
“Cristiano will see out his suspension and will make the most of the situation to train well and be at to his best for his return. He doesn’t need any recovery time because he doesn’t have any problems with his knee or with any other part of his body. He was training all week until yesterday, now he has two days off and will then join up with the team again,a said Ancelotti.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas has also come forward to the defence of under-fire Cristiano Ronaldo.
“What’s done is done. Cristiano Ronaldo is going to serve a two-match ban. He’s expressed his regret and is focussed on the next game when we’ll have him back,” said Casillas
“It’s not easy being Ronaldo, to always be in front of the cameras, under all that pressure… he’s forever in everyone’s sights. Ronaldo has all our support”.