MADRID:
Real Madrid coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has backed Vinicius Junior to escape Ronald Araujo’s pressure when facing Los Blancos. Barcelona on Sunday in the Clasico in La Liga.
The Brazilian, the key for Madrid this season, was shut down by the Barca defender Araujo in recent conflicts with the Catalans, with coach Xavi Hernandez deploying the midfielder on the right side to face directly to him.
Vinicius has scored twice in 12 games against Barcelona, both times before Barcelona started using Araujo at right back.
No player has scored from open play against leaders Barca at the Camp Nou in La Liga this season, handing champions Madrid a daunting task as they try to claw back a nine-point deficit in the between sides.
“It’s more difficult than other games, but Vinny is always Vinny, his movement can help him to be better (from himself) in tomorrow’s game,” said Ancelotti in a press conference on Saturday.
“I’m thinking of putting him on the right, let’s see. He can play on the right, Vinicius.”
Ancelotti later said he joked about using Vinicius on the right, but reiterated that the forward could be given freedom to flow from the left.
“The truth is that it is not serious, but the movement can be important, there is no stability.
“Vini will play on the left, with more movement.”
Xavi was also looking forward to the battle between Araujo and Vinicius.
“Araujo has a very strong body, he is fast, quick, and understands the movements of his opponents,” Xavi told reporters on Saturday.
“He is responsible, and a leader. He is a defender in the world, one of the best in the world. Having Ronald in the team is a confirmation, a available.
“Usually when he beats Vinicius, he comes to win the battle, but Vinicius can make a big difference.
“It’s not just Ronald, it’s (everyone) watching, and together, we will be very good against Madrid.”
Xavi said he is looking forward to attending the Clasico at Camp Nou for the first time, and his first matches against Madrid will be played away from home.
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