Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s coach, did not hold back in praising his rival for tomorrow's Champions League match, Pep Guardiola, the coach of Manchester City, whom he considers "the best coach in the competition right now."

A Rival Who Always Surprises

"I still think that City has the best coach right now in this competition... Guardiola is a coach who has always tried to bring something new to his teams in attack, possession, pressing, and playing out from the back... He has been and continues to be an innovator in football," said Ancelotti in the pre-match press conference for the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16.

The Italian also added, "It's a nightmare preparing for the game because Guardiola always has ideas that make you think." Ancelotti reminded everyone that, despite the rivalry, these two teams have met in the last three Champions League editions, and in each case, the winner of the tie went on to lift the trophy.

The Importance of Mentality and Physical Condition

Ancelotti also commented on how challenging it is to prepare for such high-level games, explaining, "This is a match at such a high level that you have to bring your best version in many aspects, not just one." He emphasized that the physical condition of both teams won't be the deciding factor in the final result, as factors like quality, confidence, and personality will play a significant role.

Regarding Vinícius Júnior, who has faced criticism in recent weeks, Ancelotti defended his performance: "It has been a very good season for him, considering he has had two injuries that haven’t allowed him to have much continuity. I see him very close to his best level, and he can reach it tomorrow without any problem," he assured.

Ancelotti, who has won the Champions League three times with Real Madrid, expressed confidence and readiness to face criticism if the team were eliminated: "When I enter a knockout tie, there’s a risk it won’t go well, and the risk increases when you face one of the best teams and one of the best coaches," he said.