Xavi's Greatness has Changed The Azulgrana, Admits Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti commented on the El Clasico Real Madrid vs Barcelona duel which will be held at the Bernabeu, Monday (21/3/2022) early morning hrs. The Madrid coach acknowledged the greatness of Xavi Hernandez, the Barcelona coach who managed to change the team.

From the start, Ancelotti was sure of Xavi's ability. Barcelona's identity was back in the hands of this former Barca genius midfielder.

"Barcelona's identity never changes, because this team has a clear style," Ancelotti said as quoted by Marca.

"Xavi fits perfectly with Barcelona's style of play and has developed a lot after being handled by him. They are a complete team, Xavi has worked well," he added.

Real Madrid are aiming for 100 wins against Barcelona in all competitions. Currently, Madrid have won 99 times, while Barcelona have won 96 times.

If Barcelona has a clear style of play, Ancelotti admits Madrid have never been pegged to the same style.

"Football is not just stuck with one style, in my opinion. I want my team to have multiple identities," he said.

"I always try my style in which the players feel comfortable."

Karim Benzema will certainly miss the match against Barcelona. He refused to mention who the substitutes were.

"I already have a choice of players who will replace him, but I will not say here. We have Gareth Bale, Mariano Diaz, Luca Jovic, Isco or Rodrygo too," he said.