What we always waited for; Graham Potter finally reacts to Chelsea-Real Madrid UCL draw
What we always waited for; Graham Potter finally reacts to Chelsea-Real Madrid UCL draw.
After Chelsea real Madrid draw, a lot of people had waited for Potter to make a statement about the draw but he did not. Finally he has and here is what he said;
Asked whether there was a sinking feeling when Chelsea drew Real Madrid, Potter said: ‘The feeling is excitement.
‘I’ve said we will try to win the Champions League and that’s the same for the other seven clubs in the draw I’m sure.
‘We will focus on Real Madrid when we get there but at the moment our thoughts are on tomorrow and Everton. I’d rather focus on Everton because the other stuff is a long way away.’
While Potter was reluctant to speak in depth about Chelsea’s European clash with Real Madrid, he did heap praise on Bernabeu boss Carlo Ancelotti.
The legendary Italian became the first manager to win four Champions League titles when Real Madrid lifted the trophy last season.
Potter said: ‘I don’t know Carlo personally but I played against him when he was at Everton and he’s a gentleman.
‘I have so much respect for him and his career. The Champions League wins, the longevity… it’s amazing, incredible.’
The two-legged Champions League quarter-finals will be played on April 11-12 and April 18-19, while the semi-finals are on May 9-10 and May 16-17.
The Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, Turkey, will host the 2023 Champions League final on June 10.
On the challenge of facing a Sean Dyche side, Potter added: ‘Wherever they are, it’s difficult. He’s a fantastic coach and his record is impressive.
‘To do what he did at Burnley is a fantastic achievement. Everton are motivated and have clarity in all the phases. We know how difficult the game is. We’ll have to play well.’