Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Iker Casillas would be the starter for Saturday’s massive friendly against Manchester United at the Big House in Ann Arbor, Michigan, while also confirming that Cristiano Ronaldo is not fit to face his former club, but expects the Ballon d’Or winner to be back for the European Super Cup.
In his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti first spoke about the match against Manchester United and insisted that they are going out to win.
“No match against Manchester United is a friendly. They are a fantastic team and we are playing in a beautiful stadium, that’s why we want to finish this tour on a high note and playing well.
“Van Gaal is a manager with a wealth of experience, who I’m certain will do a good job at Manchester United, just as he did with the Dutch national team in the World Cup. Following Ferguson is difficult. He’s signed some great players, but the Premier League is very competitive.”
Ancelotti went on to confirm that Cristiano Ronaldo would not play before confirming that Iker Casillas would get the start in this match and the European Super Cup over Diego Lopez, who looks to be on his way out of the club.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is doing individual work, the plan is that he continues the programme and on the 5thAugust, we will resume training with the team. I’m counting on him for the Super Cup.
“Diego Lopez is doing well, like always. He’s working well and he’s very professional. There’s nothing new about him leaving. He’s a Real Madrid player and tomorrow he’s not going to play because I want to give Iker minutes because he’s going to play in the Super Cup.
“We had a lot of issues concerning the goalkeeping position last year and I don’t like to talk about Navas, who is a goalkeeper who, at this moment, isn’t playing for Real Madrid.”
On the topic of potential exits, Ancelotti stressed that there was no news concerning Angel Di Maria and that he, once again, expects the Argentine at training on 5th August.
“There’s no news. He’s still on holiday and he’ll return to training with Real Madrid on 5th August, as I’ve previously stated.”
Ancelotti concluded by discussing football in the United States.
“The people have a fantastic sporting culture. Over these past few days, we’ve met a lot of fans and I’m sure that soccer will continue to grow here.”
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