Real Madrid clinched their 36th LaLiga title, but head coach Carlo Ancelotti is not taking their foot off the gas. With the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund looming, Ancelotti is determined to make the most of the remaining games.
Having already won the Supercopa de Espana in January, Madrid are eyeing a third trophy this season. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of Tuesday’s home match against Alaves in their preparations.
“We have to take advantage of these games to build momentum,” Ancelotti told reporters. “Those who were rested against Granada will play tomorrow. We’ll use it to get into a rhythm and good motivation…the aim is for the whole squad to be at full strength.”
The matches will also provide valuable game time for players returning from long-term injuries, such as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Eder Militao. Ancelotti highlighted the need for Militao to get more minutes under his belt before the final.
“[Militao] needs to play more minutes. He’s progressing very well, he’s getting better every game. Hopefully, he can be at his best for the final,” Ancelotti said. “We’ll make the necessary decisions the week before the final.”
Madrid’s unbeaten run in all competitions since January has been impressive. With 90 points from 35 LaLiga games, they sit comfortably at the top, 15 points ahead of second-placed Girona with three league matches remaining.
“After the game against Alaves, I’m going to give them three days’ rest,” Ancelotti revealed. “We’ll then have two weeks to prepare well for the final, but the team needs to rest after such a demanding season.”
