Real Madrid CF – Málaga CF
“Truthfully speaking, I’m not worried. We’ll affront Real Madrid with the same characteristics with which we’ve faced other rivals. Logically, the impact of this game isn’t the same as others. There are no more words to describe playing this match”.
Calm
“I think we must always focus on winning. We can’t go out there in fear of playing a major rival. It’s crucial that we stand up to them, and soak up the atmosphere of playing in such a wonderful stadium like the Santiago Bernabéu. The coaching team are feeling calm about tomorrow’s match. The players must go out and enjoy it as if it were a final, not just against Madrid, but the following match too”.
Stand up to the rival
“We’ll try our best to stand up to them. Circumstances may mean we’ll have to focus more at the back, as they have top quality individual players. We’ll have to watch out in regards to shots at the target or one-on-ones. We’ll seek out our opportunities. We have pacey, talented players, and at any moment we’ll have possibilities”.
Play our game
“That positive dynamic they had was broken against Sevilla. What is clear is that they won’t let another opportunity escape. Against us they have to go out and win to show they’re still performing well. They came from a very good run, although with two defeats there’s talk of crisis. They are Madrid and we are Málaga. We’ll need to play our game, go out there to win and bring home a positive result”.
Clash with Zidane as a player
“It was a fantastic match, my second in Spain. We achieved a 1-1 draw thanks to a goal by Fernando Sanz. I remember it with great joy. Coming up against such a big figure as Zidane, both as a player, and now a coach, is a challenge”.
Keko, in the line-up
“Keko is thrilled to be back after such a long time. He can’t wait to contribute to the team and show why he’s here. Others like Miguel Torres and Charles are also eager to find a place in the line-up too”.
Demichelis
“Demichelis has this level of seniority and calm that transmits to the team. Tactically you don’t need to tell him anything. He’ll be a fundamental member of the team for the younger players, who will look up to him. The boys have a world-class player from whom they must learn. His experience is great for the team. I hope he shows it”.
