NEWS STORY. 11/02/2023. Alberto Navarro
Carlo Ancelotti spoke in the press room at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium after Real Madrid defeated Al Hilal to become world champions for the eighth time in their history: "We had a good tournament and we've shown improvement over the last few games. We have a lot of quality up front and we need to improve on some mistakes at the back. We're also going to get players back who have been injured. Karim has returned and Militão and Courtois will be back soon. This title gives us a boost for the rest of the season. We have the desire and the will to do our best in all competitions and in every minute of every game".
"The atmosphere was fantastic. The city, the hotel and the training camp have been terrific as well. We have been very comfortable and Morocco seems to bring me good luck, so I hope to come back. We've had a good time and we're going home with the title and the happiness of all the Real Madrid fans here in Morocco.
The Golden Ball of the Tournament
"Vini Jr. just keeps on growing. He started at the beginning of last year and is symptom of the team's progression. Little by little, we have won the Champions League and the World Cup title. He's doing very well and we're delighted with him. He keeps improving and now he makes a difference in every game and is proving to be much more effective and gets on the scoresheet in almost every game."
"Vini Jr. was upset by the defeat in Mallorca, but he prepared well for this tournament, which luckily we managed to win. Now we feel this trophy will give us a new impetus and we're raring to go. He'll have a rest for a couple of days because he can't play on Wednesday against Elche because he's suspended. The rest will be good for him, but he's not showing any signs of fatigue."
Nine trophies with Real Madrid and eight with Milan
"They're two football clubs and two families that are managed excellently by Berlusconi and Florentino Perez. They're the biggest fans of their clubs and Real Madrid's legacy derives from its history and tradition. We're overjoyed to be part of this history."
Valverde and his 11 goals this season
“I'm pleased because I don't have to tear up my membership card. He's had a tough time and he's getting back. He contributes a lot in different aspects. He's scored two goals and gives us so much energy on the pitch. With his energy and Vini Jr. on the other wing, we're going to pose a real threat up front.”
On replacing Tchouameni
“It’s just a knock. Nothing more.”
Equality in modern football
“I love football. It's a joy to see that it's improving all over the world. There's not as much difference between a European team and an African or Asian team anymore. The other continents are developing very quickly.”
