Carlo Ancelotti: "Casillas Will Play Against Valladolid and Espanyol"

Carlo Ancelotti pretty much ended all the speculation before the Champions League Final. He announced that Iker Casillas will play two matches before the Champions League Final in Lisbon.

I've made my decision, I talked to them and we all decided that Casillas will start against Valladolid and Espanyol, while López will play tomorrow against Valencia and also next weekend against Celta Vigo.

If that wasn't enough, he almost confirmed that Asier Illarramendi will replace Xabi Alonso in the midfield for the Champions League Final.

The most natural thing to do is to place Illarramendi there. He's the most natural replacement for Xabi Alonso. But we're going to appeal Alonso's yellow card to see if he's available.

It was not surprising to see Ancelotti ending all that speculation in just two questions. That can definitely help the team going forward. To see the Italian coach so sure of his decisions was a big relief, really. That's exactly what the team needs right now.