Real heat is on Ancelotti!

Carlo Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti knows better than anyone how quickly things can change at Real Madrid.

After the sensational comeback against PSG, Madrid were euphoric. They had defeated one of Europe's elite, humiliated an economic rival, neutralised Lionel Messi and, possibly, convinced Kylian Mbappe. They were about to win La Liga and suddenly looked contenders in the Champions League too. Three weeks later, the advantage in the league is still intact thanks to a morale-boosting win over Celta Vigo on Saturday. But Ancelotti's credit has all but evaporated. Real are unsure if their coach can travel to the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea on Wednesday, after he tested COVID positive last week.

Clasico effect

After the disastrous 90 minutes at the Clasico recently where they lost 0-4, there has been criticism of Ancelotti's counter-attacking style and his lack of rotation. For Ancelotti, the Clasico defeat means winning La Liga may no longer be enough.

How they fare against Chelsea will frame how the first year of his second tenure is viewed. And the match outcome could decide if he stays next season. Real president Florentino Perez met Ancelotti in the international break and reassured him that his future was secure, but the need for talks was significant. A good show should convince Perez that Ancelotti is worth a second season, especially with Mbappe expected to join.

Tuchel, the motivator

Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel's ability to keep his players focused should ensure the defending champs are ready for tonight's test despite a recent 1-4 loss to Brentford. Despite owner Roman Abramovich putting Chelsea up for sale following sanctions from the UK government over the Russia-Ukraine war, Tuchel kept his players focused to win six successive matches in all competitions.

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