'Gabriel Jesus was very dangerous, but different from Haaland'

Soccereco, Staff Writer

Published: 10:54, 9 May 2023

Carlo Ancelotti was bombarded with questions about Erling Haaland before the first Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and Manchester City.

"We're playing against Manchester City, not against Erling Haaland," the Italian coach made clear at the press conference. "Haaland is clearly a very dangerous player. He proves to be of the highest level, especially in scoring goals. But if we only talk about Haaland, we forget a very complete team that plays very good football, defends well, attacks, has ideas. We plan to stop a team that seems unstoppable."

"We will have our chances," said Ancelotti, who won the Copa del Rey on Saturday thanks to golden boy Rodrygo. "We are in good form, at the same level as last year. What counts is motivation, enthusiasm. Winning the trophy is a bonus."

Last season, Real Madrid and Manchester City also faced each other in the Champions League semi-finals. At that time, De Koninklijke triumphed after a 4-3 defeat in England with a 3-1 victory in Madrid. "It's a more complete team than last year," Ancelotti analyzed. "Gabriel Jesus was very dangerous, but different from Haaland. Now they benefit more from the long ball, the second balls. But the style is the same."