Real Madrid had no involvement in venue switch - Ancelotti

The Blancos coach has insisted to Goal that it was Fifa who decided to relocate the Club World Cup semi-final fixture against Cruz Azul to Marrakech

Real Madrid did not instigate the change of venue for Tuesday's Club World Cup semi-final, Carlo Ancelotti has told Goal.
The European champions were due to face Cruz Azul in Rabat in their opening game of the competition, but concerns over a waterlogged surface at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah enforced a switch of the tie to Marrakech.

And Ancelotti has insisted that it was entirely Fifa's decision to change venues.

"We didn't ask to change, we just received the information on Sunday. We then had to organise to travel to Marrakech on Monday night," said Ancelotti when questioned by Goal on Monday.

"But no, we didn't ask, we just got told the information and we had to do this, nothing else."

The Italian added at a pre-match media conference in Rabat on Monday that he has yet to see the pitch at the Grand Stade de Marrakech where the clash will now take place.

"It's not too much of a change, and I think it's a good thing. It is the semi-final of the Club World Cup, and we need to play it on a pitch which is in good condition.

"I haven't yet seen the pitch in Marrakech but I believe it will be OK."

Ancelotti also moved to allay fears regarding Sergio Ramos, whose status at the club has recently been questioned due to the club's decision to offer reduced terms as part of a potential new contract.

"I don't have any fear," explained Ancelotti. "I know the club wants to extend the contract with Sergio, and I don't think there should be a problem at all."

Madrid head into Tuesday's fixture on the back of 20 successive wins, and while Ancelotti insists the Club World Cup will be no stroll in the park, he admits it would crown a wonderful 12 months for the club to clinch another trophy.

"I think it would make it a very special year for all of us. The year isn't finished yet, we have this very important tournament now, and we are very excited.

"We have put in a great effort to get here, but all of the teams have put in a great effort to get here as they are all champions. To us, winning this competition would be extremely special. It would be the end of a completely unforgettable year."