Carlo Ancelotti fully appreciates the magnitude of what’s at stake tonight as Real Madrid go in search of their 10th European title against Atletico in Lisbon.
Los Blancos have been marooned on nine titles ever since a 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen at Hampden Park 12 years ago, and the desire amongst Los Blancos faithful to secure their 10th crown – La Decima – has remained at intense levels ever since.
Although Ancelotti has spent much of this week attempting to calm any nerves which might be surrounding his players, he admitted tonight’s encounter is more than just any other game.
“Everyone knows how important this competition is for Real Madrid,” he said. “On my first day I said I’d do all I could to help Real Madrid win the Champions League.
“We began the season with the objective of winning La Decima and we have made the final. That’s what makes it special. There’s a thin line between an obsession and a dream, and my aim is to realise the dream.”
Amidst the frenzy of La Decima, however, Ancelotti reiterated that he will attempt to take the emotion out of the encounter and encourage his players to approach the game with clear heads.
“A lot goes through your mind before a game like this,” he added. “But what matters is to be calm, train well, to be on top of things and give the team clear instructions.
“My main focus is on the tactics and the instructions I will give to the players about how they should play the game.”
Ancelotti’s preparations for the game – his seventh Champions League final as a player and coach – have been hit by selection problems, with Xabi Alonso ruled out through suspension and a number of players struggling with injuries.
Although Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale are certain to start, Ancelotti is less than hopeful over the chances of defender Pepe and striker Karim Benzema.
“Pepe is an important player for us and deserves to be in the final for everything he has done for us, as well as his experience and character. But he and Benzema haven’t trained this week, and we will take the decision after the final training session,” he said.
And Ancelotti refused to address speculation that he could leave the Bernabeu in the event of a defeat having also failed in pursuit of the La Liga title won by Atletico, simply saying: “My future is this game.”
