“The honeymoon never ends” Ancelotti on his future with Real Madrid ahead of El Clasico | OneFootball

Carlo Ancelotti has urged his Real Madrid players to be sharp in every aspect of Sunday’s El Clasico, describing it as a game of fine margins that could reshape the La Liga title race.

Real Madrid trail Barcelona by four points heading into the weekend. A win at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys would throw the title race wide open with just three matches left.

“In these types of matches, you have to manage the little details well,” Ancelotti told reporters ahead of the clash. “Barcelona push you back, but when you have the ball, you must exploit their weaknesses. No team is perfect.”

Barcelona are coming off a gruelling Champions League semi-final defeat to Inter Milan. The Catalans came within minutes of a place in the final before losing 7-6 on aggregate after extra time. Ancelotti believes that disappointment could fuel their desire.

“When you suffer a setback, there’s a great opportunity to react,” he said. “Barcelona were very close to the final. That tells you how strong they’ve been.”

With reports swirling about his future, Ancelotti was quick to quash any notion of distraction within the camp.

“What’s happening around us hasn’t affected us this week. We’re fine and very confident,” he stated.

The Italian also brushed aside suggestions that his bond with the club may be fading. “The honeymoon never ends with this club. It will continue forever,” he said. “It’s like a relationship — at first, there’s passion. Later, affection and understanding grow.”

Set pieces may prove pivotal, especially with Antonio Rudiger absent. Ancelotti praised the deliveries of Luka Modric and Arda Guler, while highlighting Aurelien Tchouameni as a threat in the air.

“If they listen to me, it will turn out well,” he said with a smile.

Rodrygo is expected to return after illness, and with limited options due to injuries, Ancelotti confirmed youth defender Jacobo will be among the substitutes.

While Barcelona have already claimed the Super Cup and Copa del Rey this season, La Liga remains up for grabs. Real Madrid must win to stay in the hunt. A loss would effectively end their hopes.

“The league is about continuity,” Ancelotti concluded. “If we win, the door opens. If not, it becomes very difficult.”