Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has revealed he already knows who will start against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League final.
Madrid wrapped up their La Liga campaign on Friday night with a drew 0-0 against Real Betis. The Champions League showpiece was the centre of attention in the immediate aftermath of the tie with Madrid already wrapping up the Spanish title in the weeks prior. Liverpool are yet to find out whether they will be crowned Premier League champions this season with a game against Wolves on Sunday still to play.
With two extra days rest over the Reds, the former Everton boss was asked whether fans could expect David Alaba and Rodrygo to feature from the start - and Ancelotti was honest and up front about his team news ahead of the game in Paris next Saturday evening.
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“I already know the line-up, it’s clear to me. Alaba will make it. The reason he didn’t play today was that there was no need to take any risks. 'He's going to play, 100 per cent. He hasn't played since April 26, it's true, but not only physical condition is taken into account for the match. Skill and experience are too.
"In a final, you need quality and experience and not just the fittest players. As for Rodrygo, it’s true he has done well when coming on as a substitute, but I think he has also had good contributions as a starter.”
One player who did not feature on Friday night but could contribute in Paris next week is Gareth Bale. The last time the two sides met at this stage of the competition, the Welsh winger played a major role in his side's win, scoring twice in a 3-1. Injuries have plagued the former Tottenham Hotspur attacker's recent years in Madrid but Ancelotti revealed he will be fit for the final in what would be his last game for the club.
“He wanted to have a farewell, but he couldn’t make the bench because he wasn’t fit enough. I think he will be fit for the final, though.”
