Real Madrid: Carlo Ancelotti focused on Valencia match after Vinicius Jr racist abuse

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti says his focus is on playing a “strong football match” and not the potential for racist abuse when they visit Valencia on Saturday.

Valencia were forced to close part of their stadium for five matches following the incident.

“Valencia’s idea is the same,” said Ancelotti.

The match has been labelled “high risk” by Spanish authorities who have called for extra policing at the stadium.

Ancelotti added: “The teams and the fans want a show. Don’t forget what happened last year, because racist acts must be condemned and identified. Valencia did very well, identifying whoever committed that crime.”

Ancelotti made no suggestion he was planning to rest forward Vinicius for the return to the stadium.

The Brazilian has scored 12 goals in 24 appearances for Real this season and Ancelotti said the 23-year-old’s focus has also been about trying to win the match.

“All we’ve thought about this week is how to cause Valencia problems,” he added.

Ancelotti also paid tribute to the victims of the fire at an apartment block in Valencia last month, which led to the death of 10 people.

“We’re going to play in a city that has recently suffered a tragedy. It’s very difficult to forget that,” he said.

“We express our utmost solidarity with the families affected and that’s why we have to put on the best show possible and I’m sure Valencia feel the same.”

England midfielder Jude Bellingham is due to return to the Real Madrid squad to face Valencia (20:00 GMT kick-off), having missed Real’s last three matches with an ankle sprain.