Carlo Ancelotti Says Real Madrid Won’t Underestimate Bayern Munich

On Monday, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti stated that his team will not overlook Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final in Germany on Tuesday, despite Bayern’s underwhelming performance in domestic competitions.

Despite Bayer Leverkusen ending the Bavarians’ 11-year Bundesliga reign by clinching the league crown two weeks ago, Ancelotti emphasized the significance of European pedigree and with their six Champions League titles, they will be motivated to pursue the trophy within their reach.

“I’m not worried (with being the odds-on favorites), but we are confident to face a team that, despite not having made a great Bundesliga, have had a great Champions League tie against Arsenal,” he told a press conference on Monday. “They have just eliminated a very strong team in Europe (Arsenal). In the Champions League, history counts a lot, it counts for them but that also plays in our favor.”

Bayern Munich reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in four years by securing a 3-2 aggregate victory over Arsenal.

The 14-time champions Real Madrid, advanced to the semi-finals after eliminating holders Manchester City in a penalty shootout. Additionally, they are on the verge of securing their record-extending 36th La Liga title, currently leading the table with an 11-point advantage over second-placed Barcelona with five matches remaining.

Ancelotti noted the similarities between Bayern and Real in their ability to adapt to various situations. He mentioned that his team is preparing for unforeseen challenges, especially with Bayern’s departing coach Thomas Tuchel motivated to end his tenure on a positive note.

“We are two teams that don’t have a very clear identity … and we can play the games in different ways,” Ancelotti said. “In terms of quality, they are strong in transition, they can change their style and they are very dangerous”.

He continued, “But it’s only the first leg, it’s a 180 (minutes) tie which we face with confidence … but in the knowledge that we are up against a quality opponent with very strong individuals.”

Ancelotti did not want to give any clues as to his selection for Tuesday’s match, with the biggest question being who starts alongside Antonio Rudiger in the middle of the defense.

In the absence of center-backs Eder Militao and David Alaba due to serious knee injuries, France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has excelled in defense. Likely, he will once again earn his coach’s trust to play in that position.

“(Tchouameni) will play tomorrow… But in which position? I don’t know…” Ancelotti said.

Militao made his first start of the season in the 1-0 win at Real Sociedad on Friday after tearing his ACL in August.