Carlo Ancelotti has sent a stark warning to Real Madrid's Champions League rivals, claiming that his side are yet to hit top gear despite their impressive start to the season. The Italian manager's comments come as Real Madrid prepare to face Ligue 1 club Brest on Wednesday, with the reigning European champions looking to secure automatic qualification to the last 16.
Ancelotti's side have been in fine form in recent weeks, but the experienced manager is refusing to get carried away with their performances. Instead, he is keen to keep his players' feet on the ground, insisting that they can still improve significantly. "We are improving, but we are yet to show our best," Ancelotti said in a recent press conference. "We need to keep working hard and focusing on our goals if we want to achieve success this season."
Real Madrid's place in the knockout stages is all but guaranteed, with the team ensured of a spot in at least the knockout play-off round as league champions. However, Ancelotti is keen for his side to secure automatic qualification to the last 16, and a win against Brest on Wednesday would go a long way in helping them achieve that aim. The French club have been something of a surprise package in the Champions League this season, and Real Madrid will need to be at their best if they want to come away with all three points.
Ancelotti's warning to his players and their rivals will come as no surprise to those who have followed his managerial career. The Italian is known for his meticulous approach to the game, and his ability to motivate his players to perform at their highest level. With a wealth of experience in the Champions League, Ancelotti knows what it takes to succeed in the competition, and he will be keen to draw on that experience as Real Madrid look to defend their title.
As the Champions League group stages enter their final stretch, the stakes are high for all the teams involved. For Real Madrid, the aim is clear: to secure automatic qualification to the last 16 and avoid the knockout play-off round. With Ancelotti at the helm, they have every chance of achieving that aim, but they will need to be at their best if they want to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
The match against Brest on Wednesday promises to be an intriguing one, with both teams looking to take a significant step forward in the competition. For Real Madrid, it is a chance to prove that they are once again the team to beat in the Champions League. For Brest, it is an opportunity to cause a major upset and take a significant step towards the knockout stages. One thing is for sure: with Ancelotti's warning still ringing in their ears, Real Madrid will be ready for the challenge that lies ahead.