Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has voiced his frustration with the new Champions League format, saying that the increased number of matches is making things harder for teams.
Despite a dominant 3-0 win over Brest, the Italian coach was more focused on the challenges ahead.
Speaking after the match, Ancelotti admitted that his side will face a tough opponent in the next round, with Manchester City or Celtic as possible rivals.
“We have to wait for the draw. If we get City, it will be difficult for both of us,” he said.
However, his biggest concern remains the new structure of the tournament.
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Carlo Ancelotti on new Champions League format
Ancelotti made it clear that he does not support the revised format.
“I don’t like it. There are too many matches. My idea of football is to take games away from the players, not add more,” he stated.
The new layout increases the number of fixtures, leading to concerns about player fatigue and injury risks.
And with Real at times running the risk of failing to emerge from the inaugural league phase entirely, in what would have been universally regarded as a huge catastrophe for the side that won yet another UCL title last season, the manager’s frustrations with the format’s demands were on display while other sides arguably settled into matters faster.
Despite this, Ancelotti acknowledged that Real Madrid must adapt like everyone else. “We must respect the format,” he noted.
His team has performed well enough to keep their title defence alive so far, but he believes the extra games could take a toll as the competition progresses.
When asked about Rodrygo’s form, the coach was full of praise. “I’ve always seen him perform well. Even when he’s not scoring, he contributes a lot to the team,” Ancelotti said.
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Tough road ahead for Real Madrid
With the knockout phase approaching, Ancelotti knows his team must be at their best. If they face City, it will be a major test.
Pep Guardiola’s side is one of the strongest in Europe, but Madrid has a history of rising to the occasion.
For now, all eyes are on the draw. But one thing is clear — Ancelotti is not happy with the changes to the Champions League.
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