Real Madrid gear up for La Liga opener against Athletic Club

In their most recent three encounters with the Basque side, Los Blancos have achieved a win, a draw, and a loss respectively. Going up against Ernesto Valverde™s formidable squad on their own turf is expected to be no walk in the park.

Ahead of the season opener, Real coach Carlo Ancelotti engaged with the media, delving into a spectrum of topics ranging from the team's goalkeeping situation to the tactical formation.

Ancelotti began by addressing the prominent topic - Thibaut Courtois' injury and the ensuing need for a new goalkeeper. The seasoned coach expressed unwavering confidence in the young Andriy Lunin's capabilities and encouraged him to seize the opportunity presented.

"We place full confidence in Lunin, who possesses exceptional goalkeeping skills. He showcased his prowess during pre-season. Our faith in him is absolute; we recognise his talent. Experience is the only missing piece, a gap that everyone faces. However, he will accumulate it gradually."

Regarding the emotional climate within the Real Madrid camp following Courtois' potential season-ending ACL injury, Ancelotti conveyed, "Yesterday was emotionally challenging. We're disheartened on a personal level; it's a significant player's injury. Yet, such setbacks are inherent to football. Our heartfelt wishes go to Courtois for a swift recovery."

However, Ancelotti projected an air of calmness concerning Courtois' setback, seemingly aiming to bolster Lunin's confidence and belief.

"Upon Courtois' injury, my immediate thought was of Lunin stepping in. Our gaze is fixed ahead. Concerning absent players, worry isn't my inclination. Our focus was on conveying assurance to Lunin."

The manager was subsequently queried about the potential inclusion of a new goalkeeper. He reiterated his trust in Lunin but maintained the possibility of a fresh addition.

"Our faith in Lunin is unshakable, and in the forthcoming days, we'll assess the necessity for another goalkeeper in the squad.

"We possess time until the 31st; the goalkeepers behind Lunin possess potential albeit youthfulness. We'll contemplate it. Fran [Gonzalez] is merely 18; should we secure someone, it's to bolster squad depth while retaining our belief in Lunin."

Ancelotti then shifted attention to the team's offensive resources, affirming his contentment with the depth at his disposal. He also expressed optimism for Joselu and Brahim Diaz.

"Throughout the pre-season, we demonstrated prowess in goal-scoring and chance creation. Our concern lay in defence. Goal-scoring success was elusive, possibly due to the striker's preseason fatigue. However, our attacking options are formidable; our frontline possesses versatility."

"A prominent presence in the box, Joselu, coupled with Brahim's ability to navigate between the lines, offers diverse solutions," Ancelotti added.

An update on Arda Guler's condition was also provided. Guler is set to undergo meniscal surgery later this week, with Ancelotti predicting a swift recovery.

"Given the minor nature of Arda's problem, should surgery be required, recovery time is brief. We anticipate a speedy recuperation. Privacy constraints preclude sharing intricate details."

Within the interview, Ancelotti dismissed the prospect of acquiring a new centre-forward and expressed faith in the existing squad.

"I'm unconvinced; my contentment with the current squad is long-standing. I've observed impressive cohesion and commitment. Our enthusiasm is unwavering as we gear up for a season-long battle."

The press conference concluded with Ancelotti's take on the goal targets for Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo Goes in the upcoming season.

"Regarding Vini and Rodrygo's goal challenge, their growth trajectory should persist. As for the specific number of goals, I remain uncertain.

"Our team boasts a multitude of goal contributors”Vini, Bellingham, Rodrygo, Kroos, among others. The spectrum of options is vast," Ancelotti affirmed, subtly withholding precise figures.

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