Coentrao requests Real Madrid exit

Real Madrid full-back Fabio Coentrao has requested a transfer, manager Carlos Ancelotti has revealed.

The Portugal international has struggled to nail down a regular first-team spot since arriving from Benfica in 2011, making 53 appearances in all competitions.

Coentrao has been linked with a move to Tottenham as a potential makeweight in any move for Gareth bale, but he now looks set to depart the Bernabeu, regardless of Madrid’s pursuit of the Welshman.

Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in the 25-year-old and Ancelotti confirmed the left-back will not feature in Real’s Liga opener against Real Betis on Sunday.

“Coentrao has asked to leave the club and won’t be playing tomorrow (Sunday),” he said.

Ancelotti insisted he was happy with the make-up of his squad, but did not suggest that his satisfaction would hinder any potential move for Bale.

When quizzed on the Tottenham star, the Italian responded: “I can only respond by saying I’m very happy with the squad I have but the best players make a team better.”

The 54-year-old hinted that Dani Carvajal could be in line for a full debut after his summer move back to the Bernabeu from Bayer Leverkusen against Betis, but confirmed Xabi Alonso will miss the game due to a lack of fitness.

Ancelotti is determined to get his reign under way in the best possible manner and is not only committed to winning this term, but doing so by playing the best football possible.

“Our objective is not only to win but to also play beautiful attacking football,” he added.

“The important thing is to create a style of play that is comfortable for my players.

“If the team plays well, the fans will be happy. The atmosphere at the Bernabeu has always been great.”