Carlo Ancelotti impressed by Real Madrid player’s debut

Real Madrid have many new faces in their squad ahead of the 2023/24 season and will have to adapt with the changing times. They have seen many veteran players depart in recent years and are trying to replace them with the next generation of talent from around the world. And the early signs are extremely positive.

The first glimpse of Carlo Ancelotti’s new look Real Madrid team ended in familiar fashion as Los Blancos came from two goals behind to defeat AC Milan by a 3-2 scoreline in their first pre-season game of the season. But it was clear that a lot has changed since the last time the Spanish giants were on the pitch.

One key addition that Real Madrid have made this summer is Jude Bellingham. Several top Premier League sides were rumoured to be interested in him, but Los Blancos were successful in signing the Englishman in a blockbuster move from Borussia Dortmund.

There are high hopes surrounding Bellingham. Many believe that he can be a future Ballon d’Or contender.

Ancelotti impressed by Real Madrid player’s debut

Bellingham impressed immensely on his debut for Real Madrid as well. As reported by GOAL, while speaking to reporters after the game against AC Milan, Ancelotti said:

"“I was really impressed with Bellingham. We have things we have to alter, like the way we played out from the back. We tried to play more through the middle than out wide in order to make the most of space between the lines.“Bellingham played very well and the team has to get used to his quality, which is unbelievable. His arrival into the box is hugely important for the team. I like the system but we saw a few mistakes. We didn’t play the ball out as we should have but I was pleased with the game overall.”"

The Italian coach further went on to add about Bellingham and his qualities:

"“He’s a fantastic player, very important for us because he’s a complete midfielder and he brings real pace and intensity to the game. He moves extremely well without the ball and he’s different to the other midfielders we have. He makes the most of the free space and adds another dimension to this squad, which is fantastic.”"

Real Madrid kicked off their pre-season friendlies on with an impressive second-half comeback against AC Milan. The established stars of the team shined, with Fede Valverde scoring a brace and Vinicius Junior finding the winner. And with the exception of Arda Guler, who is dealing with a slight knock, all the new summer arrivals featured at some point.

Brahim Diaz and Joselu started in the first half and were somewhat lacklustre. However, Fran Garcia put in a very bright second-half performance, but it was Bellingham, who ultimately managed to catch most eyes.