Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized that Real Madrid will not underestimate Bayern Munich in their Champions League semifinal, despite the German club’s disappointing domestic season.
As the two football giants prepare to clash at the Allianz Arena, Ancelotti has labeled Bayern as “dangerous” and cautioned against any hint of complacency.
Bayern’s surrender of the Bundesliga title for the first time since 2012, coupled with their decision to part ways with coach Thomas Tuchel at the season’s end, may suggest vulnerability. However, Ancelotti, speaking at a press conference on Monday, underscored the formidable qualities of the German side and stressed the need for respect.
“We’re preparing to play a big team with lots of qualities,” Ancelotti stated. “We are confident and have faith, but we have respect for Bayern Munich. They haven’t had a fantastic season in the Bundesliga, but they played very well in two matches against Arsenal. This shows the quality of this club.”
Acknowledging Bayern’s strengths, Ancelotti emphasized their prowess in transition and versatility, branding them “very dangerous.” He reiterated Real Madrid’s objective of reaching the final but emphasized the necessity of focus and determination in facing Bayern’s challenge.
Earlier on Monday, Thomas Tuchel remarked that Bayern would have “no chance” if the tie were to be decided solely based on the managers’ experience. Ancelotti, a four-time Champions League winner, responded by praising Tuchel as a tactical “genius,” highlighting his profound respect for the German coach’s abilities.
“The match is up to the players,” Ancelotti emphasized. “You give them the idea or the strategy, and they have to be convinced of it, but it’s all about the players and their behavior on the pitch.”
Real Madrid, having eliminated holders Manchester City in the previous round, are considered favorites to add to their record 14 Champions League titles. However, midfielder Federico Valverde stressed the challenge posed by Bayern, emphasizing their storied history in the competition, including six victories.
“All the matches are complicated in this competition,” Valverde remarked. “All the teams deserve respect, Bayern Munich above all. The same as Real Madrid, they always make it until the end. We respect them in the same way we respect Manchester City. We need to show great performances with the quality that we have, and we want to win this title.”
As the stage is set for a tantalizing encounter between two European powerhouses, Ancelotti’s warnings against complacency underscore the gravity of the task facing Real Madrid in their quest for Champions League glory.
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