Carlo Ancelotti believes Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid has shades of the one he led to La Decima two years ago.
Ancelotti was sacked by Madrid just 12 months after he guided the club to a historic 10th European cup, courtesy of a 4-1 victory over capital neighbours Atletico in the 2014 Champions League final, and he feels there are “similar sensations” between his Blancos and the incumbent.
Previewing the last-four second leg against Manchester City on Wednesday for Goal.com, the Coach explained: “[Sergio Aguero] is a very good striker.
“Real Madrid has to be aware of him because he could easily score at the Bernabeu. It won’t be easy stopping him.
“In the first game, [Sergio] Ramos and Pepe had him under control and I hope in the second game the same thing happens. It won’t be easy for Real Madrid.
“Manchester City played a great first half in the first game but in the second they felt a bit tired. We’ll see.”
“The problem is these teams have a lot of players and the coach can only choose 11 of them.
“At Manchester City, there are top players in midfield. Jesus Navas, Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva have been playing and Sterling is having difficulty finding his place.
“The door is open for him after Silva’s injury but he is still a young player who can improve.
“Young players are useful in these kinds of games. [Kingsley] Coman is very young and played with Bayern Munich.
“Saul [Niguez] did the same with Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid played with Lucas [Vazquez].
"It is true, there's a similar environment [to that of La Decima]. There’s the same sensation and also Real Madrid are totally linked to the Champions League.
“[On Cristiano Ronaldo’s injury problems], these kinds of injuries happen in real football.
“There are a lot of games during the season and, especially at the end of the season, the risks are higher. I think Ronaldo also showed this year that he is the best in the world.
“Zidane has very competitive players at his disposal. He will find the best solution.
“In Manchester he chose Lucas Vazquez, who has played a great season, and Jese [Rodriguez] to replace [Karim] Benzema. I think he is going to do the same.”
