London, 10 December 2024 (PA Media/dpa/MIA) — Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti insists his side need to "make the most" of their remaining three Champions League games to ensure they qualify for the knockout stages.

Madrid have failed to impress on the European stage this season, having lost three of their five games so far, and are currently occupying the final play-off place in the table, four points behind the top eight, as they prepare to face Atalanta on Tuesday.

On the other hand, Atalanta have not lost in the competition and welcome the 15-time winners to the Gewiss Stadium, where they have drawn twice so far.

Ancelotti acknowledged Atalanta's good form but highlighted the importance of the return of key players.

He said: "We have to make the most of the three remaining games to qualify.

"It's a tough match against a team who are playing really well. They have improved since the European Super Cup.

"They are in great form, have real enthusiasm and have won a lot of games.

"It's important to have Vinicius Junior back in training so he can start getting back up to speed, the same goes for Rodrygo. Jude Bellingham is fine, 100%. The only doubts we have are Vinicius and Rodrygo. We'll decide on them after the training session."

Bellingham had not scored a goal until November but has since returned to form, scoring five and assisting three in his last five league games, which has helped Ancelotti's side win four of their last five in LaLiga.

Ancelotti heaped praise on the 21-year-old ahead of the tie.

He added: "The team's form has altered. We're playing better up top and showing greater fluidity.

"He's [Bellingham] back scoring again and that's important, but his attitude on the pitch remains the same. Bellingham gives us an awful lot both going forward and defensively as well."

Atalanta are enjoying another good season on both the domestic stage and European and are currently top of Serie A under manager Gian Piero Gasperini.

Ancelotti added: "They've done an exceptional job as a club.

"There are new players here every year and even so, the team remains playing at the top level. That speaks volumes about the structure at the club.

"He's [Gasperini] doing a fantastic job. He changes the squad every year but he's still able to adapt, delivering an intense, beautiful playing style. He's really done a spectacular job here."