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In preparation for his side's most important match to date (this season), Carlo Ancelotti addressed the international press on his expectations for Madrid's clash against Bayern Munich. Carletto was joined by Gareth Bale and we've listed their major talking points below.
Carlo Ancelotti:
On Guardiola's statements: "Hopefully we're in the final. Nobody has said that we've won. Tomorrow's game will be very tough against a big team. We are not so foolish to think that we already won. We have a small advantage and we want to capitalize on it."
Tactics: "I don't think too much will change from the first leg. Bayern will not change its philosophy and we'll do something different, but not drastic. Tactics are not as important as the mental aspect and the desire to reach the final.The shape isn't as important as the team remaining together."
Possible line-up: "I have the entire squad in good physical and mental condition. It's not easy to choose the eleven. I will not reveal the line-up."
Possession vs. Counter-Attack: "It depends on the players. Benzema, Cristiano and Bale all need space to make the quickest transmission. The good thing about football is that it fits all styles. I like the quick transition."
On Bale: "I'm happy with him, even with his initial setbacks. He'll only improve."
On Di María: "He's having a fantastic season. He's adapted to a position that is not his and I can place him in other positions. We are very pleased with him."
On Ramos and Xabi Alonso's yellow cards: "They have to play normally. We're not in the final so we have to give it our all."
Gareth Bale:
On his current physical condition: "I'm in perfect condition to play."
On Real Madrid's title ambitions: "We wanted to win the Copa del Rey and we did. Now we'll try to win the Champions League."
On defending Madrid's 1-0 lead: "Park the bus? We're not a team built to defend. We're going to try to demonstrate good football on the pitch."
On Ronaldo: "It's great to train with Cristiano. It's one of the reasons why I came to Madrid: to be with the best."