Today's Edition
LONDON (PA MEDIA/DPA)
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has shrugged off mounting criticism in the wake of Real Madrid's Champions League defeat by Liverpool and compared his current situation to that of misfiring megastar Kylian Mbappe.
Ancelotti's side are preparing to face lowly Getafe on Sunday amid reports of impending talks with club president Florentino Perez about their relatively underwhelming campaign so far.
But with Mbappe also bearing the brunt of frustration, Ancelotti stressed the need for patience and expressed his conviction that his side will emerge stronger from their current injury-hit period.
Ancelotti told a press conference: "I find myself in a similar position to Mbappe, working tirelessly to unlock my best performance.
"The results reflect that I have yet to achieve that, which disappoints me, but I'm not overly concerned. I firmly believe that we will find solutions moving forward."
Real head into the weekend just four points behind leaders Barcelona with a game in hand, but recent memories of their 4-0 humiliation to their great rivals, and their dismal form in the Champions League, have raised concerns.
However Ancelotti preferred to pick out the bright spots, including an imminent easing of their injury problems, with Rodrygo among those expected to return quicker than expected against Getafe.
"Throughout my extensive career, only one season has been straightforward, which was last year," added Ancelotti.
"In every other one I've had to navigate problems. It's unrealistic expect every season to unfold without a hitch.
"It's best to identify issues sooner rather than later, we have the opportunity to address our issues, and I'm confident we will. It's about enduring this period with determination, as brighter days await us."
Ancelotti also refused to pin any blame on Mbappe, whose struggles since he made his dream summer move to Spain were highlighted at Anfield, where he missed a penalty and was largely anonymous in their 2-0 defeat.
"He hasn't given up, he knows he needs to up his game," said Ancelotti. "It's crucial to recognise that this is a team issue, not just one individual.
"Feel free to criticise my tactics, but the overall team dynamic remains strong, and we must remember that we are missing several key players. Patience is the way forward."
