Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that Real Madrid cannot secure a top-eight finish in the Champions League and is prepared for Los Blancos to go through the play-offs.
Real Madrid will travel to Atalanta’s home ground in the 2024/25 Champions League. The exciting duel between the two teams will be held at Gewiss Stadium, Wednesday (11/12/2024).
Under the new Champions League format, only the top eight teams in the standings consisting of 36 teams qualify automatically for the last 16, with the next 16 best teams going into the play-offs.
Los Blancos have been in good form in La Liga, but they have lost three of their five Champions League matches. They are in 24th place in the standings ahead of facing hot team Atalanta.
If Real Madrid are in Bergamo, this will be the first time that the reigning Champions League champions have suffered three consecutive defeats in the following season.
Ancelotti knows Real Madrid need a win to ease fears of an early exit, and he believes a place in the play-offs is the limit of Los Blancos’ ambitions.
“There is nothing at stake other than three important points that would help us qualify,” said Ancelotti.
“Unfortunately we have to play an extra round, but that’s it, I have a lot of confidence in my team.
“Things have improved, we are now in a good dynamic and will continue to improve as time goes by.
“Tomorrow’s game could be the most difficult between now and the end of the year.”
With three games remaining, Ancelotti admits the game in Bergamo is a must-win, but he insists his players have the ability to silence the doubters.
“So-so at the moment,” added Ancelotti.
“We are worried about finding the right strategy to beat a very strong opponent like Atalanta. But nothing more than that, so-so.”
Ancelotti expects to face a much improved Atalanta side than the one they beat 2-0 in the UEFA Super Cup.
The Europa League winners are top of Serie A and on a nine-match winning run in all competitions, including victories over AC Milan, Napoli and Roma.
“Atalanta played very well, they have improved a lot compared to the Super Cup. They are in great form and they are full of enthusiasm, but it gives us the opportunity to go there and prove ourselves and get three important points,” said Ancelotti.
“They are a great team, a club that does a spectacular job despite losing a lot of players every summer. They always find a way to adapt and that shows who they are.”
