Real Madrid - Málaga
“What we want is what we need, which are points, and they are valued the same at every ground, including the Bernabéu. In the last seven League games, although they’re not very many, we’ve earned seven points, and at home have maintained our level more. We’ve drawn in one of the last four, and won two, and although are away stats are there, this part of the match calendar has been very tough for us. However, without a doubt, the team is showing that it’s alive. If we can achieve victory or score at the Bernabéu that would be fantastic, as our illusion is intact, as it was last week against Dépor”.
Ronaldo and company
“Cristiano is a player who doesn’t allow himself to be shackled or doubt himself, and it wouldn’t be unreasonable to think that any team will cover Ronaldo so he doesn’t score goals, and yet there are other players who can score; we’re not going to obsess about that, there are many players to cover, think Isco, Modric, or Kroos…There are lots of players of an excellent level, and although one may be in a two-day temporary ‘depression’, he can cause you damage, and in a regular match is capable of winning by himself”.
Way of playing at the Bernabéu
“We play with possibilities of creating a game against Real Madrid as we did at Camp Nou. These teams are used to attacking you, and attacking you well, and have their individualities, but they can also have a hard time defending. Before us, Levante, Betis, Las Palmas, Tottenham, Eibar…have all been to the Bernabéu. These teams all had their options as they all had good possession and depth, so that’s what we’re concentrating on”.
Full confidence
“We’re going to face difficulties all year because of the start we’ve had, but this team will be saved as the players say so with their performances, they say so with the fans who show no doubt, and because the coach says so. I know everyone thinks the same, but we do face a tough road ahead because of all our past difficulties”.
Welcome in Madrid
“I always receive a warm welcome in Madrid, as it’s a highly demanding place when you’re active, but when you’re in reserve, the supporters are tremendously affectionate. People remember you much more when you’re not playing than when you are, they are very demanding fans and very affectionate afterwards”.
