Real Madrid's 'Lack Of Intensity' Blamed by Carlo Ancelotti

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti highlighted two key issues contributing to his team's lackluster performance this season: a lack of intensity in defense and slow ball circulation. Despite sitting second in La Liga, trailing Barcelona by three points, the team has not lived up to expectations, even with the addition of star striker Kylian Mbappe. In their recent Champions League loss to Lille, the team's shortcomings were apparent. Ancelotti acknowledged that Madrid is still not performing at their best, but believes they are close to reaching their potential. He expressed his concerns during a pre-match press conference before their upcoming game against Villarreal.

"I think there are players who have not reached their best level, it's normal, we have to be patient. We have a lack of intensity in defence, also offensively, and slow ball circulation -- that's where we have to improve."

The Italian was philosophical when it came to discussing his side's 1-0 defeat at Lille, saying that "sometimes a defeat brings you back to reality and I liked the way the players have reacted".

Ancelotti also addressed concerns about Real's strength in depth: "I don't think there's a lack of players to play with. 

"We have a lot of variety and even if we have not shown all the quality we have, there is nothing missing". 

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On Saturday, Madrid face third-placed Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Yellow Submarine have only lost one game in La Liga this season -- 5-1 at home to Barca.

(This story has not been edited by staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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