Carlo Ancelotti Dismisses Sepp Blatter's Apology

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti feels Sepp Blatter's apology to Cristiano Ronaldo is of little value as he says the damage has already been done.

Blatter, 77, recently made some ill-advised remarks about the Portugal international when comparing him to Lionel Messi, leading to angry reactions from Madrid and Ronaldo.

Fifa's president has since offered his apologies for his comments, but Ancelotti is not impressed and believes the Swiss should have known better.

"Blatter's apology? The damage has been done. Sometimes it's better to think before speaking. Maybe count to 10," Ancelotti stated at a press conference, before praising Ronaldo's attitude.

"Cristiano is a very professional and serious player. He gives everything in every game. I can't ask any more from him."

The Italian coach then went on to discuss his starting XI for this weekend's game against Rayo Vallecano and revealed that he will make a number of changes to the team that beat Sevilla 7-3 in midweek, with the Champions League clash against Juventus in his thoughts.

"I'm going to make some rotations, so some players who didn't play against Sevilla will play on Saturday," he continued.

"Raphael Varane is a little tired. He's not going to play, so he can be ready for Tuesday. Xabi Alonso will start tomorrow."

Alonso made his first appearance of the season against los Rojiblancos after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Goal.com