Real Madrid coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has stated that his team needs rest and that Cristiano Ronaldo is not in optimum condition.
The Italian has said that his team struggled against Cordoba in their first La Liga match of the season, but that winning was the most important thing in the encounter.
“There was some tiredness because since 12 August we’ve played every three days and it’s not easy to play every three days in the pre-season. But the game was controlled,” he told AS.
“The main thing was to start with a win, (though we) struggled. But it all turned out well.
“We controlled the game well. We tried to mix possession and direct attack. I think we were balanced.”
Ancelotti went on to comment on Cristiano Ronaldo’s physical condition, after the Portuguese scored his first goal of the season in the 2-0 victory.
“He’s not in optimum condition, we aren’t yet. We’ve been working on the aerobic performance. We need more rhythm,” he continued.
Ronaldo played his 250th game for Real Madrid and scored his 255th goal.
Karim Benzema, meanwhile, scored for the first time in four months for Real Madrid, and Ancelotti was happy to see the Frenchman score, but also stressed that it isn’t important that he does.
“When a striker like Karim scores, everybody is happy. But I’ve always liked his quality even if he’s not scored. It would be worrying if he was in perfect condition at this stage, as for everybody," he added.
Real Madrid will take a short break from action to recover from their intense early season schedule and will continue their La Liga campaign, playing away to Real Sociedad on Sunday at 21:00.
Do you think Cristiano Ronaldo will be able to return to full fitness before Sunday? Have your say in the comments section below.
