The reigning champion could be six points from the Liga summit at the time of kick -off, it is therefore imperative that he finds the way to victory at the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, he found himself facing a Rayo team difficult to beat, against which he drew 0-0 in the Bernabeu last season-and against whom he also drew 3-3 earlier in the season in Vallecas. Regarding this match, Carlo Ancelotti expects to be tough, as he said at his pre-match press conference (via Diario As).
“Rayo is going very well. They are well organized, intense, and they will ask us to mourn. We must continue to fight. Marking points is essential. We are well. We had time to recover well since Tuesday, I hope we will make a good match. »»
Valverde, it's settled
Ancelotti also confirmed that Federico Valverde was available to face the Rayo, despite the concerns about his physical condition. He also responded to speculation that the Uruguayan midfielder could be used permanently as a right side in the future.
“It is fine, it is available. He arrived just against Atlético, but he progressed and is in good condition. He can play. I know where he likes to play, as a right winger. He likes to be pivot or interior and as lateral too. In the future, he will be one of the best, where he is already, he is the best midfielder in the world, the best lateral … But his future will be in the central midfielder.
“For players, either you run or make the difference. If you don't run or don't make the difference, it's bad. There are players who do both. If you don't run, then you have to make a difference. Valverde can do both. »»
