Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti talks at a press conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Monday, Dec. 29, 2014 (Photo: AP)
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is anxious for facing former club Milan just hours ahead of the two teams' friendly match in Dubai.
Amid the current winter break, the Spanish giants will take on AC Milan in the Dubai Challenge Cup clash on Tuesday.
The 55-year old coach was in charge of the Italian club from 2001-2009, guiding them to winning four European Cups and three Serie A titles.
"It is going to be a very special match for me. I have a lot of history with Milan and I also have a great relationship with the Milan manager (Filippo Inzaghi), who was one of my players," Ancelotti told Real Madrid's official website on Monday.
"It will be a special day for me. It is an honour to play against them because I have very fond memories of the club."
Ancelotti was appointed as Real new boss in June 2013 winning the Copa del Rey and a record 10th European title in his first season in charge.
Earlier this month, the Spanish side won its fourth title of the year, the Club World Cup to add the global crown to their Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Copa del Rey triumphs.
"It is a warm-up game, both teams will be treating it as such, but it will also be a great spectacle of football," Ancelotti said about Tuesday's match.
"The two teams with the most amount of European Cup titles face each other. It is good to be part of this event."
"Real Madrid has a very strong image and it is a pleasure to be in Dubai. We want to treat our supporters to a win. Playing here is great motivation."
"Additionally, this game will also be good preparation for the upcoming matches. We have a lot of fans here, there is a lot of excitement and love. It is great for us to come and play here and make our fans happy," the coach concluded.
Real Madrid tops the Spanish league table with 39 points, one point ahead of rivals Barcelona. In Seria A, Milan currently lie at the seventh place with 25, 14 behind leaders Juventus.
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