Carlo Ancelotti ‘pleased’ with Inter Milan workout

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has said he was pleased with his players efforts in their opening pre-season match against Inter Milan.

Made up of a lot of players from Real Madrid Castilla, Los Blancos drew 1-1 with the Italian side but went down 3-2 on penalties. Gareth Bale gave the 10-time European champions the lead with a bullet of a shot from 30 yards after just 11 minutes but Inter equalised through a 68th minute penalty.

Speaking at his press conference after the game, Ancelotti said he was pleased with the effort put in by his younger players. He added that he was also impressed with the physical level of the team given that it was their first game.

“I am satisfied with the younger players who played a great game.  They were focused, with character.  In this sense, the match went well.  The players showed good physical condition.  Some of the younger players showed a lot of personality.  That’s good.  We played with a very good style.  A fresh style to start the season.  During the first 45 minutes, we were very good in the attack,” he stated.

Ancelotti also spoke about the form and fitness of Gareth Bale. Last season, the Welshman didn’t have a pre-season as he was injured prior to his move to the Santiago Bernabeu. This summer is different, with the 24-year-old looking stronger and fitter after the summer break.

“He can enjoy this start to the pre-season, but now come the official matches.  He is doing well.  It will be a different campaign for him, especially in the beginning.  He had a good holiday, 40 days and is relaxed,” Ancelotto stated.