Real Madrid defender Alaba is ‘100 per cent going to play’ against Liverpool, insists Ancelotti

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti says David Alaba will ‘100 per cent’ feature in the Champions League final against Liverpool.

Alaba has been dealing with a hamstring injury sustained in the semi-final first leg against Manchester City last month and did not feature in Madrid’s last LaLiga game of the season against Real Betis on Friday.

After the 0-0 draw at the Bernabeu, Ancelotti confirmed that the Austria defender will play against Liverpool at the Stade de France next Saturday.

‘Alaba is going to play the final but it wasn’t necessary to take risks,’ Ancelotti told Movistar+.

‘He’s going to play, 100 per cent. He hasn’t played since April 26, it’s true, but not only physical condition is taken into account for the match. Skill and experience are too.

The Italian coach expects to have Gareth Bale available for one more time before his contract expires at the end of the season.

Gareth Bale, who is out of contract at the end of the season. could also feature in Paris

The winger failed to make the squad to face Betis after recently returning from a back injury.

‘He wanted to say goodbye and play if he was able. Bale has one last chance because he will be fine for the final,’ Ancelotti added.

Marcelo was sent on as a second-half substitute amid reports he could leave this summer, but Ancelotti hinted that the Brazilian could yet extend his stay.

‘He hasn’t said goodbye yet, he’s still our captain and will be in Paris. If he does say goodbye in the end, of the best full-backs in the world will leave. I think he’s talking to the club, I don’t know,’ said the Madrid boss.

Carlo Ancelotti and his players received a standing ovation after Friday’s draw with REal Betis