Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that Real Madrid are very dependent on star striker Karim Benzema, who has netted two hat-tricks in their last two Champions League games.
Ancelotti believes that depending on a player of Benzema’s calibre is a blessing for Los Blancos,
who are huge favourites to make it through to the Champions League semi-finals after beating Chelsea 3-1 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
Ancelotti said during Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Chelsea.
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“We are dependent on Benzema,”
“That’s how it is, we are not going to deny it.
And I’m very happy that we are dependent on Karim. It’s a reality, and it’s a good thing.
“Karim is a modern forward and [does] what is required of strikers.
Everything, including defensive work. He is the perfect representation of what a centre forward should be in today’s football.”
Ancelotti stressed that he wouldn’t leave Everton for just any other team last summer,
but he eventually decided to part ways with the Toffees after Real Madrid came knocking on his door.
“[Real Madrid] were the only team I couldn’t say no to,”
“If anyone else had come, I would have stayed at Everton.
I was very good there. If Madrid are happy at the end of the season, I think I will continue to be happy, as I am now.”
The Real Madrid boss was asked whether he would like to coach the Italian national team and he revealed that he could have taken charge of the side back in 2018.
“I have sometimes thought about going to a national team, but I like the day-to-day [life at a club]”.
“I was able to go to Italy in 2018. Until I change that mindset, I’m not going to go to a national team.
“I don’t like working three times a year. If I get bored of that day-to-day desire, I’ll stop.
Of course it was a great experience to be part of the [coaching] staff at the 1994 World Cup, but I like the work at club level.”
