Bayern’s manager Carlo Ancelotti has spoken critically of Frank Ribery’s latest performances. The manager suggested the player may be benched in future encounters if his playing doesn’t improve.
Would Douglas Costa be better suited than Ribery in the game against Dortmund? That is the question Ancelotti is asking himself ahead of the game against his team’s chief rivals. The Frenchman was substituted after only the first half against Mainz.
It was a surprising decision to substitute Ribery who is generally seen as one of the team’s most important players. However, the team’s manager insists this decision was made in Bayern’s best interest. The midfielder played well against Dortmund earlier this month, but was largely unimpressive against Real Madrid and Mainz.
Ancelotti assured fans that Ribery is in good health. The midfielder has experienced health concerns in the not too distant past and recently came into the fold from injury. The decision to substitute the player was based exclusively on the manner in which he had played in the first half.
Ancelotti told reporters at the conference following the game. “He was out of the team the other day because he had not been playing well. Douglas Costa had some knee problems before, but he is doing better now. He is in a good shape and an option for the game against Dortmund.”
Carlo Ancelotti also talked about captain Philipp Lahm and praised his attitude. The German skipper is likely to retire at the end of this season. The defender talked earlier about how he wants to end his career on a high, by lifting the DFB-Pokal trophy. The defender was rumored at the end of last season to leave Bayern in favor of the MLS. The U.S. league has been a destination for many aging European players in recent years. However, Lahm was persuaded to continue his career at Bayern.
@MrAncelotti on @philipplahm: “I love his professionalism and quality. I’m sad that he is ending his career.” #FCBBVB pic.twitter.com/axOdLTqie2
— FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) April 25, 2017
“Philipp is an example to follow and is very important for the team. I love his professional attitude. I am sad that he is retiring,” Ancelotti commented.
“He has already made his decision, but we are obviously joking about it. I keep trying to convince him to continue playing! We could play him in midfield to make sure he does not have to run as much. Maybe that can convince him…”
“I can only hope he ends his career in the best way possible.”
