Liga: Ancelotti “doesn’t think La Liga will decide” against Girona

“Whoever wins tomorrow takes the advantage, but La Liga is still very long,” said the Italian technician at a press conference on Friday. “I don't think La Liga will be decided tomorrow, whatever happens,” added the coach of the Madrid club, leading the Spanish championship with two points ahead of Girona before the 24th day.

Girona coach Míchel will not be able to sit on the bench due to suspension, but Ancelotti believes his absence “is not a determining factor. Football belongs to the players,” he said, recalling that he had missed two matches which ended in a victory for the Merengue.

But he took the opportunity to ask for “more understanding” from referees when it comes to warning coaches. “We have a lot of respect” for Girona, but “we are confident to return to the path of victory after the draw” against Atlético Madrid (1-1) last weekend, said Ancelotti. Concerning doubts about the state of form of Brazilian winger Vinicius, Ancelotti assured that the latter was “fine” and that he was “ready to start”.

As for German defender Antonio Rüdiger, injured in the left thigh, his coach assured that “he had a good feeling, tomorrow (Saturday) we will see again, if he feels good. At full capacity, he will play, otherwise we are not going to take any risks. Real will play their Champions League round of 16 first leg on Tuesday in Leipzig.