The troubles of Real Madrid over the injury concerns are not over yet as the likes of Sergio Ramos, James Rodriguez and Modric are still out. Meanwhile, Coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Pepe is fit and he, along with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lucas Silva or Illaramendi, will start the game against Schalke tonight.
Real Madrid have a relatively easy task ahead of them in the knockout round of the UEFA Champions League tonight. The Los Blancos are clear favorites to progress into the quarter finals of Champions League at the expense of Schalke.
However, injuries to key players is a reason of worry for coach Carlo Ancelotti. However, they have received a big boost ahead of this key encounter against Schalke as Pepe as back now. And the coach confirmed that the Portuguese star will start the game tonight.
a Pepe will play against Schalke. Either Lucas Silva or Illarra will play. Schalke have moved on from last year. Attacking a backline of three is not the same as attacking a four-man defence,a said Anceloti.
The Real Madrid boss also confirmed that Ronaldo is in excellent shape and he, alongwith Toni Kroos, will start against Schalke.
a Cristiano was physically excellent in the game against Deportivo. He played with intensity. He is improving, he didn’t score but he has a great opportunity tomorrow. Kroos is the brains behind how we playa
a I have never reacted to what the press has had to say and I never will. Everyone has their own opinion and that’s all I have to say about thata .
Carlo Ancelotti also outlined his ambition to win another Champions League and La Liga title for Real Madrid this season.
a We have the greatest motivation possible in La Liga. We are top and when you are first there is no greater motivation than winning the league. The same is true in the Champions League. We are the European champions and will do all we can to win the competition againa .
Meanwhile, Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has said that he is excited to play against the German club again after making a summer move to Spain.
a It is a great feeling to return and doing so with the Real Madrid jersey is extra special. I remember playing here with Bayern. I managed to get good results and I’m hoping to repeat that. You get a special feeling playing here, it’s fantastica .