Speaking to the press after Real Madrid’s 3-2 win over Celta Vigo on Sunday, head coach Carlo Ancelotti looked ahead to next weekend’s El Clasico, sending a clear warning to archrivals Barcelona.
The victory over Celta was a hard-fought but crucial result in the La Liga title race. With this win, Los Blancos remain in second place, just four points behind league leaders Barcelona, who narrowly defeated Valladolid 2-1.
Now, all eyes turn to the final El Clasico of the season—what could be a decisive showdown for the title. One week out from this high-stakes clash, Ancelotti has already set the tone, making it clear that Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice against Celta, will be key to Madrid’s strategy.
“Mbappé will be very important in this match because Barça plays with a very high defensive line,” the Italian said during his post-match press conference. “His runs in behind will be crucial and decisive. The more he does it, the better it will be for us.”
El Clasico is set for next Sunday—and the stage is already heating up.