Carlo Ancelotti: “Luka Modric is a gift for football”

Real Madrid beat Deportivo Minera 5-0 in Murcia and qualified for the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey. After the match, Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the media about the match and praised the quality of Luka Modric. He said: “It is a gift for football. Even more so for those who can enjoy it up close, the fans, the teammates, the coach… all of Real Madrid. For me it is a great gift, especially because of the way he prepares for this type of match. He prepares them as if they were a final, it is a very important example for young people.”

Ancelotti on performance

“We played a good game, committed from the beginning. We took the lead from the beginning. We controlled the game well, it was a good game. We are satisfied. Let’s think about what’s next.

“Seriousness is important, playing as a team, taking it seriously, we have more quality, but it was not evident to have more attitude. And the team did well from start to finish. It was a good match. “Those who play less had minutes and we are satisfied.”

Ancelotti on the youth players

“Nothing special, they showed their quality. They have quality. For them it is a good experience to be with us, work, train, get minutes with us. They are young, they and others, with a lot of quality. We always have them under control, we observe them.”

Ancelotti on Endrick

“He played a good game, scoring is a good touch, he moved well, he had opportunities, his movement is always effective behind the line of attack. He lacked precision, but his game was very good. And it was very dangerous on the right. “He must be patient, he will score goals when we need them.”

Ancelotti on Fede Valverde

“He was very good, he played 45 minutes and we thought that was good for him. He left Valencia very fresh. We take minutes away from others. “He is doing very well.”

Ancelotti on Vallejo’s departure

“I don’t know, it’s your decision. It was not available, I had a little discomfort. It is better not to take any risks.”

Ancelotti on criticism

“I am delighted, criticism of the coach is quite normal. In football there is no university, everyone can have an opinion and they may be right.”

Ancelotti on the environment

“It’s very important for the team, it’s very nice for the players, they stayed with the fans to sign shirts, it’s a nice day in that sense too.”