Ancelotti has faith in 'interesting' Nigerian winger amid Real Madrid link with Mbappe

Published: August 14, 2021

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, manager Carlo Ancelotti refused to comment on speculation linking Paris Saint Germain star Kylian Mbappe with a summer move to Real Madrid.

It has been rumoured that the French Ligue 1 side may sell the France World Cup winner to prevent running foul of UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations.

Ancelotti namechecked Spanish-born Nigerian winger Marvin Akinlabi as he discussed the young players that have caught his eye since his return to Real Madrid.

On Mbappe, the Italian football tactician was quoted as saying by Real Madrid's official website : "I don’t like to speak about players who aren’t here. I just want to speak about my players.

"I really like this squad because it has a good mix of experience and youth, and they’re really up for it. I’ve discovered interesting players like Arribas, Blanco, Miguel, Marvin and Chust".

Ancelotti left out Akinlabi from his first squad list ahead of his side's LaLiga Santander opener against Alaves at the Estadio de Mendizorroza (Vitoria-Gasteiz) on Saturday night.

The 21-year-old, a UEFA Youth League winner with Real Madrid last year, trained with Los Blancos first team throughout the pre-season, featuring in friendlies against Rangers and AC Milan.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : realmadrid.com

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com