Ancelotti on Potential Champions League Opponents: “We Don’t Like Playing Against Manchester City”
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has given his thoughts ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final draw, acknowledging the difficulty of facing Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City while also recognizing the unpredictability of the tournament. When asked about the possibility of drawing either Manchester City or Celtic, Ancelotti was clear about which team posed a greater challenge.
“City or Celtic? Well, City have more chances to win the Champions League so…”
The Italian coach, who has guided Real Madrid to multiple Champions League triumphs, did not shy away from admitting that Manchester City are one of the most formidable sides in the competition. Having been knocked out by City in last season’s semi-final in a crushing 4-0 defeat at the Etihad, Madrid knows firsthand the level of dominance that Guardiola’s team can impose on their opponents.
When pressed further about the potential clash, Ancelotti remained pragmatic:
“If we get City, it will be more difficult. Now we wait for the draw.”
This statement reflects both respect for City’s quality and Madrid’s awareness of the challenge that lies ahead. Despite Real Madrid’s illustrious European history, Ancelotti acknowledges that the reigning champions remain one of the biggest obstacles to reclaiming the title. City, with their possession-based dominance and the goal-scoring prowess of Erling Haaland, have emerged as one of the most consistent sides in Europe in recent years.
Ancelotti concluded with a revealing remark about Madrid’s preference when it comes to Champions League opponents:
“We don’t like playing against Manchester City.”
This admission highlights the difficulty of facing a City side that has been a thorn in Madrid’s side in recent seasons. While Los Blancos have often thrived in the Champions League, their struggles against Guardiola’s team suggest that they would rather avoid another showdown unless absolutely necessary. As the draw looms, Ancelotti and Madrid can only wait to see whether fate will once again pit them against the defending champions.