Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed Pep Guardiola’s complaints about Manchester City’s busy fixture schedule ahead of their Champions League encounter next week.
Guardiola expressed dissatisfaction with City’s tight schedule compared to Real Madrid’s nine-day gap before their clash. However, Ancelotti believes this discrepancy will have minimal impact on the game.
Speaking after Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, Ancelotti acknowledged the scheduling advantage but emphasized that it wouldn’t significantly affect the match.
“While they have a more congested schedule, it won’t affect the game. We have a slight advantage due to the scheduling, but overall, it won’t make a significant difference,” Ancelotti told reporters.
City faces Aston Villa and Crystal Palace before their Champions League clash with Real Madrid. Guardiola lamented the lack of additional rest, particularly in comparison to other clubs.
Guardiola highlighted the different scheduling approaches in other leagues, noting the disparities in rest days between fixtures.
“In France, PSG don’t play between their quarter-final games. In Portugal, they often play on Friday before the Champions League. They have their own decisions,” Guardiola explained.
He also questioned the scheduling of the FA Cup semi-final, which precedes their Champions League encounter, expressing frustration over the lack of flexibility in the fixture calendar.
Guardiola’s concerns center on managing player fatigue and minimizing the risk of injuries amid a congested schedule.
Despite Guardiola’s grievances, Ancelotti remains confident that Real Madrid and Manchester City will deliver an intense and competitive match in the Champions League quarter-finals.
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