Real Madrid Prepares for High-Stakes Match at Valencia: Ancelotti Addresses Racial Abuse Concerns

Manager Ancelotti Sets Focus on Football Amid Anticipation and Security Measures

Valencia Encounter Marks Return to Mestalla Stadium Since Vinicius Jr Incident

Carlo Ancelotti (64), the manager of Real Madrid, sought to calm the waters surrounding their highly anticipated match at Valencia on Saturday, as his team prepares to return to a stadium where Brazil winger Vinicius Jr (23) faced racial abuse last year.

Anticipating a fiery atmosphere, Spanish authorities have declared the match ‘high risk’ and ordered police reinforcements. This will be the first time Real and Vinicius have revisited Mestalla since May 2023, when racist slurs allegedly targeted the Brazilian.

Despite the tense environment, Ancelotti attempted to tone down the palpable tension by stating that his side focuses on playing football and strengthening their already solid grip atop the LaLiga table.

Ancelotti’s Perspective

“Our idea is to go and play a strong game, and Valencia’s idea is the same. The teams and the fans want a spectacle,” Ancelotti said during a press conference on Friday.

Condemnation of Racist Acts

“We must not forget last year because we must condemn and identify racist acts. Valencia did very well in identifying those who committed a crime,” Ancelotti emphasized.

Furthermore, Ancelotti dismissed any thoughts of resting Vinicius at Valencia and stated that they had not focused on the hostile environment they could face at Mestalla.

Vinicius’ Readiness and Praise

“We didn’t talk about anything special. Vinicius is ready, as he always is,” Ancelotti emphasized.

“He is doing what he can to be as good as possible, and I have nothing more to add,” Ancelotti added.

In addition, Ancelotti praised Vinicius, who is set to play his 250th game for Real.

“I don’t see a ceiling for him,” Ancelotti remarked.

“Since he arrived, I have witnessed a constant progression in his quality and talent, which makes him capable of scoring goals and providing assists naturally,” Ancelotti explained.

“Because of his humility, the sky is the limit. His best quality is that he really enjoys playing football,” Ancelotti concluded.

Current Standings

Real Madrid currently holds 65 points, six ahead of second-placed Girona. Girona will play at Mallorca on Sunday, while Barcelona, sitting third with 57 points, will visit Athletic Bilbao. Valencia currently holds the ninth position with 36 points.