"Guardiola is one of the best, if not the best"

For the third consecutive year, Manchester City and Real Madrid will meet in the Champions League. Ahead of the first leg in England, Ancelotti analysed the upcoming encounter and shared his thoughts on the high-stakes fixture.
"This match has become a bit of a Clasico in this competition, given how often we face each other," Ancelotti began. "It will be exciting and evenly matched, as we've seen in previous games. It's very hard to predict the outcome as much depends on attitude, quality, confidence, and character. These are top-level encounters where you have to be at your best in every department.”
Ancelotti was full of admiration for Manchester City and their manager, Pep Guardiola. "City are one of Europe's best sides, and Guardiola is the best coach in the competition right now. This is the toughest match we could face. If you're not operating at 100%, you won't win. However, we feel we can be competitive, even though we are facing some challenges."
He also shared his respect for Guardiola’s influence on football: "He's revolutionised the game with his ideas—possession, attacking football, pressing, and building from the back. He's an innovator, and I hold him in great esteem. He's one of the best, if not the best. Every time we face him, it's a nightmare to prepare because he always comes up with ideas that force you to rethink everything," Ancelotti added.
Regarding Vinicius Jr’s form, Ancelotti praised the Brazilian's performances despite injury setbacks: "He's been excellent, especially considering the two injuries that interrupted his rhythm. He's scored 17 goals, provided numerous assists, and been decisive in key matches. All this despite the lack of consistency due to injuries."
"Vinicius isn't anxious at all, he's in a good place. Even without being at 100%, he's almost there. In the second half of the derby, he made a real impact. He caused all sorts of problems down the left and was a nightmare for the opposition. He's in top shape, highly motivated, and eager to play,” he continued.
On whether he feels responsible if they're eliminated, Ancelotti was clear: "Yes, I'm responsible, without a doubt. It's part of the job, especially given my history. When you're involved in a knockout tie, there's always the risk of failure. That risk increases when you're up against one of the best teams and managers in the world. But we're ready.”
Ancelotti also addressed questions surrounding Jesus Vallejo's situation: "There's absolutely nothing wrong. He's training well, but his contract is ending, and we've decided to give more opportunities to younger players."
Reflecting on City's recent struggles, Ancelotti expressed surprise but confidence: "It's been a tough period for them, with injuries and defeats, but from what I’ve seen, they’re still a very competitive side. I have no doubts about City’s strength, and I never will."
The Italian coach also declined to comment on Manchester City's transfer market activity: "Everyone has the right to their opinion and to do what they think is best. I have nothing more to add on that matter."
Finally, Ancelotti explained the reasoning behind Real Madrid’s boycott of the Ballon d’Or gala: “We didn’t want to participate because we felt Vinícius should have won the Ballon d’Or. It’s not that we don’t respect Rodrigo, but we thought Vinicius deserved it last year, not this year.”
“Facing City is always a headache, but it’s the reality. Whenever City has eliminated us, they’ve gone on to win the competition, and vice versa. I believe whoever advances will go far in the competition. Surprisingly, this tie is taking place so early in the competition—this could easily have been a final, semi-final, or quarter-final. But ultimately, it’s our own fault for being in this situation," Ancelotti concluded.