Ex-Real Madrid star Mesut Özil recently weighed in on the Messi vs Ronaldo debate, playfully choosing Real Madrid’s Arda Güler as his pick. Meanwhile, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti turned down the opportunity to coach England, opting to stay at the Bernabeu. As the group gets ready for their next game against Celta Vigo, injury concerns loom over key players like Thibaut Courtois, while Eder Militao and Vinicius Jr. are expected to return to the lineup after recovering from their respective issues.
Ex-Real Madrid Star Reacts to Messi vs Ronaldo Question
This week, former Real Madrid star Mesut Özil strengthened his bond with supporters of both Los Blancos and Turkey.
The response came from the former midfielder during a media interaction.
During a press conference this week, Özil was asked the timeless question: Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?
The 36-year-old, however, avoided picking either in the GOAT debate, playfully naming Real Madrid youngster Arda Güler as his choice.
Özil, for his part, is well-acquainted with the skills of Real Madrid’s midfield prodigy.
This comes after the former Arsenal and Real Madrid star spent a season playing alongside Güler in 2021/22, during their time together at Fenerbahçe in the Turkish Süper Lig.
Both left-footed, attack-minded midfielders with equal amounts of technique and flair, it’s no surprise that Özil holds Güler’s talents in high regard.
Ancelotti Was Offered the Chance to Coach England
Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as the new England coach has shocked many, particularly since he was also strongly linked to a move to Manchester United.
However, Tuchel was not the only option for the Three Lions, as they had reportedly also approached Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti in their search for a new manager.
Ancelotti Turned Down the England Job Offer
According to AS, citing former player and pundit Gary Lineker, England reportedly reached out to Ancelotti for the head coach role.
They hoped the Italian would take charge of the English team before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Ancelotti was not interested in accepting the position.
The Real Madrid coach turned down a move to England and chose to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu, where his contract runs until 2026.
This Isn’t the First Time
This isn’t the first time Ancelotti has turned down an offer to move elsewhere, choosing instead to extend his stay at Real Madrid.
Last year, the Italians were heavily linked with a move to the Brazilian national team, with the Selecao even contacting him directly to make an appeal.
However, Ancelotti declined the offer to become the head coach of the Brazilian national team. He remained professional throughout the situation, avoiding any public comments on Brazil’s interest.
That said, the path ahead will be challenging for Real Madrid, and how effectively Ancelotti handles this tough period could significantly impact his future at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid is closely monitoring Xavi Alonso, who could be a potential candidate for the head coach position at the end of the season.
Real Madrid Star Doubtful for Celta Vigo Match
After the international break, Real Madrid will resume La Liga action on Saturday, facing Celta Vigo at the Balaidos stadium, where they have remained unbeaten for ten years.
As the Spanish champions get ready for this important match, injury concerns are mounting, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois now a significant doubt.
Courtois is Uncertain
According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is working hard to recover in time for the upcoming match.
The star goalkeeper sustained an adductor injury in his left leg during the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano.
Originally expected to be out for around two weeks, Courtois was anticipated to be fit for the Celta Vigo match and has even participated in training sessions with the team this week.
However, the report indicates that the key Real Madrid player has not fully recovered and is still uncertain about the match.
Militao Set to Return
On a brighter note, Eder Militao is available for selection. The Brazilian center-back, who suffered a muscle injury against Villarreal, has fully recovered and has been training regularly this week.
As a result, Militao is likely to be available for Carlo Ancelotti’s selection for the trip to Galicia.
Meanwhile, Vinicius Jr. has also overcome injury worries. The Brazilian forward dealt with neck issues after the Villarreal match and missed international duty to recover in Madrid.
The Brazilian has since participated in training with his teammates without any apparent issues, suggesting he will be available for Saturday’s game. Likewise, Kylian Mbappe, who had been dealing with minor muscular discomfort, is expected to be ready for the match.
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