Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has sent a warning to English football that other countries “can compete” against them, despite Premier League teams being considered “favourites.”
Madrid defeated 10-men Chelsea 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash.
Los Blancos travel to Stamford Bridge on 18th April for the return leg, with Madrid inching towards their place in the Champions League semi-finals.
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Ancelotti’s men could face another English team if they reach the semi-finals, with Manchester City in control of their quarter-final bracket against Bayern Munich.
City defeated Bayern 3-0 in the first leg at the Etihad on Tuesday evening, with the return leg to be played at the Allianz Arena on 19th April.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s La Liga clash against Cadiz on Saturday, Ancelotti insisted that he is “not bothered” with City being considered Champions League favourites.
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The 63-year-old Italian, who managed in the Premier League with Everton and Chelsea, added that teams from other leagues should not be overlooked.
“I’m not bothered, because the truth is that English football has teams that compete very well,” Ancelotti said.
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“It doesn’t surprise me that the English are favourites, like Manchester City are now.
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“However, I think even if there is a little difference, other regions showing they can compete.
“Spanish football took two teams to the semi-finals last year, this year Italy has three this year […].
“European football is much more competitive than people say.
“The English think they have the strongest league and the most spectacular league in the world, but the truth is when they come to Europe, they compete with teams with less money, but they continue to compete, such as Spain and Italy.”
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Topics: Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid, La Liga, Spain, Football
Adnan Riaz