Ancelotti talks Rodrygo, Tchouameni, Vinicius, penalty incident after Rayo Vallecano 3-3 Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti seemed calm and composed following his team’s draw against Rayo Vallecano, even though the result denied Real Madrid a chance to claim the provisional top spot in the league.

The Italian tactician remained focused on the bigger picture, addressing the team’s performance and individual contributions rather than dwelling too much on the missed opportunity.

Vinicius and penalty incident

Vinicius Jr. was denied a penalty. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

One major talking point from the match was a controversial penalty decision involving Vinicius Jr. Ancelotti expressed his disappointment with the decision, as he believed the penalty was undeniable.

“The penalty seems very clear to me. He didn’t play because he played 90 minutes after his injury. He had two opportunities and I think he played a good game,” he began saying.

However, Vinicius was not in the starting line-up, likely due to his recent return from injury.

Despite coming off the bench, the Brazilian winger managed to create a couple of good opportunities, showing his determination and talent on the pitch.

Regarding Vinicius’s tendency to engage with referees and opponents, Ancelotti avoided delving too deeply into the topic. “I don’t want to touch it,” he said.

Rodrygo’s performance

Ancelotti liked what he saw from Rodrygo. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Ancelotti also shared his thoughts on Rodrygo’s performance. The forward seemed to have rediscovered his form, demonstrating his skill and commitment during the match.

Ancelotti expressed optimism about Rodrygo’s future and highlighted the importance of the upcoming opportunity to win a title midweek, which he referred to as the perfect way to cap off an already successful year.

“We just needed a goal. Rodrygo is back to his best. I see a bright future ahead. There is a great chance to win a title on Wednesday and it would be the icing on the cake of a spectacular year.”

Defensive errors and Tchouameni

The Real Madrid manager acknowledged some defensive lapses during the match, attributing them to the team’s lack of physical dominance in certain situations.

Ancelotti appreciated Aurelien Tchouameni’s performance. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“We made mistakes in defence. We don’t have a very big team and sometimes we have to suffer. In this sense, we suffered.”

Ancelotti also addressed Tchouameni’s role in the squad. The French midfielder was deployed as a makeshift starter, a position that may not yet be his natural fit.

However, Ancelotti appreciated his efforts, noting that Tchouameni displayed promising composure and creativity with the ball.

“He is not a starter, it is an emergency. We’ll see when they’re all there. I know I can count on him. He’s not used to it but he’s found good solutions on the ball,” he explained.

Lastly, Ancelotti was also asked about Real Madrid’s inability to score in the final half-hour, to which he said, “Clear chances, penalties… but it could not be done up front. I loved Rodrygo’s game, I see a good future.

“Winning the Intercontinental would be the icing on the cake this year.”

Source: AS