Carlo Ancelotti, speaking at today's press conference, has stated that Ballon d'Or winner, Christiano Ronaldo, will start in Wednesday's Copa del Rey tie against La Liga table toppers, Atletico Madrid. The Real Madrid coach also defended his star man after his sending off at the weekend, dismissing the fact that Ronaldo could be punished further for the incident:
"Ronaldo will start tomorrow."
"I don't think we will have to wait for the committee's decision as I don't believe that he will be heavily punished. I don't think Ronaldo meant anything bad with his gesture when he left the field."
"Christiano [Ronaldo] is provoked on many occasions on the field of play and is tackled heavily."
The Real Madrid manager also revealed that his Madrid side will differ from the one that faced Atletico Madrid in the league earlier in the season:
"Every derby or Clasico is hugely important for both the fans and the club itself."
"A different Real Madrid team from the one that played Atletico Madrid in the league will play tomorrow night. Our play will differ from the last time we played Atletico."
"Diego Simeone is doing a great job and has a strong team. He is simply alleviating pressure by stating that they are not favourites for the title. They are a confident side that have maintained a high quality with great organisation."
Real Madrid squad to face Atletico Madrid:
Goalkeepers: Casillas, Diego López and Jesús.
Defenders: Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Varane, Marcelo, Carvajal, Arbeloa, Nacho and Coentrão.
Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Bale, Modric, Illarra, Casemiro, Isco and Di María.
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Morata and Jesé.