Sergio Ramos to Grada Blanca
In an interview to Grada Blanca, Sergio Ramos stressed the team’s determination to win the league title this season. The defender also praised next opponent Atletico Madrid.
"We'll need the support of our fans in the derby"
Are you having your best moment right now?
I’m having a great moment. I wanted to prove myself after last season and to be the Sergio Ramos of past years. I feel similar to how I felt in my first-ever Real Madrid games, both physically and emotionally. I am excited about helping the team at my best.
What about Real Madrid?
I think the team is having its best moment of the season. We’ve gradually come up with our own style and we now play good football and enjoy ourselves on the pitch. We are fighting for the title with Barcelona. The difference between us is minimal and I believe the best thing we can do is continue to play like we’ve done so far.
The team has only conceded 24 goals in 28 games, less than one per clash on average.
Pellegrini has obviously stressed the importance of tactics and concentration. The defence tries to concede no goals, which is a difficult thing to do. The entire squad is helping out, which helps when it comes down to making counterattacks. In past years, people criticised the team’s defending and now it is worthy of praise.
It must be good to know someone will cover your position when you venture in attack.
That’s essential. You learn about tactics with years. I am more relaxed when I attack now because I know I’m covered.
Albiol and you understand each other perfectly.
That’s good. I’ve known him for years, since we both played in Spanish youth national teams. Being that close helps to do a good job on the pitch. I always feel comfortable when I’m paired with him as centre back. We know what we’re thinking just by looking at each other, but that’s not to say I don’t play equally well next to Garay, Pepe or another team-mate.
The team has scored close to three goals per game on average. Is it more relaxing to see Cristiano and Higuain up front?
Of course it is. It guarantees at least a chance on goal against any team. And we know we’ll score from one in four chances because both of them are in tremendous form. Real Madrid have always had players that make a difference.
Interview with Madridista Mac
I’d like to apologize for the delay in publishing this interview. But here you go. Today on Hala Madrid is Madridista Mac, a fellow Asian Madridista.
Hey Mark. Can you please introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m 30 years old, getting married this May (to a Liverpool Fan so you call can imagine how much stick I got from her during our elimination last season in the Champions League). I’m a Filipino of Chinese Descent living in Singapore and an Architect by profession.
I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines – a Basketball-crazy nation: which makes my love for football and Real Madrid a sort of strange thing for someone of my nationality. I played a little bit of the sport (football) until I was about 12 then I stopped and became basketball-crazy like the rest of the country. With no natural athletic ability to speak of however, I eventually became more of an ‘armchair sports fan’: more keen to analyze tactics, strategy as an ‘outsider’.
Sometime late in my University years however, I began the odd habit of catching replays of La Liga Matches on TV (which mostly showed Real Madrid in their galactico days)… the interest in the sport sparked again. In 2004, I left Manila for Singapore to make my Master’s Degree, arriving here at the fever-pitch state of Euro 2004. In Singapore, I found a football-crazy country to start up a true love affair with the beautiful game.
Sadly in Singapore however, the interest on the sport has a blind obsession for English Football (EPL) and a disturbing ignorance for the things that happen beyond it. With Live La Liga games (nevermind the unGodly hours) on TV and being in the age of Internet Streaming matches however, my passing Interest with Real Madrid became true Love as well.
Madridista Mac has become a household name in the blogosphere as far as Madridistas are concerned. How long have you been blogging?
I wouldn’t call it a household name but I’m very flattered its considered by some as that. I’ve been blogging since about 2004-2005. It started out as just a personal thing. It didn’t take long for me to realize how stupid the idea was as I asked myself the question of who am I that people would be interested with what happens in my personal life? Why would you wanna publish a ‘censored diary’ on the net anyway? hahaha…
Madridista Mac started at about 2007 with the intention that it would only be my personal repository of youtube links to Real Madrid goals and highlights…. something for me to go back to if I wanted to recall how certain matches took place. Then every now and then I’d post a thought or 2. Sometimes people would comment and that basically served as motivation to take the blog further. I started following the blog of Corey Fiske of the Real Madrid Offside as well as the now-defunct-but-great The Real Liga. In Corey’s blog, I absolutely enjoyed the discussions and the forum: creating a much bigger buzz about Real Madrid in my head. That buzz turned into articles and commentaries which are now the posts on my blog. Not long after, I was given the opportunity to participate in the Real Madrid Talk podcast with Corey, Kevin Walker from the OwnGoalNetwork and Adam Bader of Real Madrid Talk in Ole Ole.. that just got me more motivated to keep at it.
I still struggle with consistency given that I work in a profession where working 12-16 hours a day is normal. But I still try…
Why did you choose Real Madrid?
There is a one word answer to that question: Zidane
As someone who followed the sport casually (only watching the big tournaments like the World Cup), I began following the sport more closely when Ronaldo was the game’s true phenomenon. You could imagine my shock then when I watched in horror as a bald Frenchman named Zidane destroyed Brazil in the ’98 Final. I hated him for that.
When my passing interest in Real Madrid started, I discovered that Ronaldo and Zidane were actually teammates! It didn’t take long for me to realize that I was watching a true God of the Sport at that point. It was because of Zidane that I learned that football was about more than scoring goals (an essential thing for a basketball fan used to see 100 points scored in a game to convert to the more low-scoring game of football).
Interestingly, I do not fit the Marketing Man’s profile of the asian football fan: they say that asian fans are loyal to the players and not the clubs. I remained loyal to Real Madrid ever since. I followed and supported Real Madrid from the last dark days of the galacticos, Calderon’s rise, his 2 La Liga titles, his fall… down to our now-annual Champions League Failures and onto today’s Florenteam.
Interview with Siddharth from Los-Merengues.com
Like I promised yesterday, I have for you today Siddharth Kanjilal from Los-Merengues.com. Here is my interview with him…
Hey, Siddharth. Thanks for taking some time out to answer my questions. Let’s start with some introduction here. Tell us about yourself and Los-Merengues.com.
My pleasure. Well I am basically a 24-year old currently living in Dubai, UAE although I was born in Mumbai, India and spent about 18 years there. Professionally I work as project engineer for a consultancy here in Dubai and have been working for almost two years now. Los-Merengues.com is a Real Madrid blog that I started in November, 2009 basically just to rant about my football team. Its almost like an online diary I maintain but dedicated to Real of course.
Why Real Madrid?
I don’t think there is any specific reason for it, or at least I can’t remember. I did however start following Spain first from as early as 1994 when the World Cup was held in the USA. Over time I started watching club football and I think the emergence of Raul Gonzalez was something that caught my eye and led to me becoming a Madridista. With every game this affection just grew stronger. The FIFA games from EA Sports also had a big part to play in this.
How long have you been a fan of them?
12-13 years now.
In that period which would you call your most memorable and most forgettable Real Madrid moment?
Memorable – When Barcelona had to give us the guard of honor (pasillo) at the end of the 2007-08 season before the second Clasico which we went on to win 4-1.
Forgettable – Almost a season later, same venue, different situation, and the catalans hand us a painful 6-2 defeat. Football is so bittersweet.
If you were to pick a all time best Real Madrid XI, name the players who would make the cut.
Now this is a really tough task. I am going to have to pick a substitutes bench as well in order to accommodate all the great players to have worn our famous white jersey.
Iker Casillas (GK)
Sergio Ramos (RB), Fernando Hierro (CB), Jose Santamaria (CB), Roberto Carlos (LB)
Fernando Redondo (DM)
Luis Figo (RM) Zinedine Zidane (CM) Francisco Gento (LM)
Raul (FW)
Alfredo Di Stefano (ST)
Substitutes: Miguel Gonzalez (GK) , Manuel Sanchis (CB) , Michel Salgado (RB) , Claude Makelele (DM) , Miguel Munoz (CM) , Ferenc Puskas (FW) , Hugo Sanchez (FW)
I know there are so many names I have missed, but can’t help it.
Dudek to Realmadrid.com
Jerzy Dudek turned 37 today and talked to Realmadrid.com about the team’s objectives and his personal wish to visit Cibeles at the end of the season.
"We want to win La Liga"
Are you enjoying your birthday?
It’s been a really nice day so far. All my team-mates wished me a happy birthday when I entered the dressing room this morning and they brought a cake. I will never forget it.
You are still as excited as ever about football despite being 37 years old.
Goalkeepers are like good wine; the more experienced the better (laughs). I look for things to motivate me on a daily basis, but I’m like a diesel motor. I need to do more warm-up exercises than the rest, but once I’m ready I work to perfection. I have to train hard every day to be ready for whenever I may be needed.
What have you taught Casillas and what have you learned from him?
I like his winning mentality. He is very intelligent and extremely motivated for each game. His reflexes are fantastic and he moves very fast on the goal-line. I try to help him with my experience, but he’s nevertheless got more than enough.
A goalkeeper must feel safe with defenders like Albiol, Arbeola, Ramos, Garay, Metzelder, Marcelo…
We are more solid in defence this year. A goalkeeper benefits from defensive quality. We are proving a team can score many goals while being efficient in the back line.
There are eleven finals left on the road to winning La Liga.
The Clasico will take place on 11 April, but we can’t afford to fail before or after that crucial game.
You’ll face Getafe on Thursday…
Getafe are always a complicated opponent. They also have many players that came from our academy. They will be motivated. It is crucial for us to win games like this. Getafe have good touch on ball and are very patient. We’ll have to concentrate hard.
Interview with The Offside Madridistas – Corey and Bassam
Hey all,
This is a new initiative that I’ve taken to make Hala Madrid more interesting than before, or should I say to make it interesting. And this is something that I have dreamed of – conducting my own interview. So where better to start with than the Blogosphere, I thought. And ergo I chose to interview a handful of the famous and the best Real Madrid bloggers around with reference to Real Madrid.
Today I have for you guys Corey and Bassam from The Real Madrid Offside team who gladly obliged to answer the questions that I had for them despite their busy schedule. So without further adieu, let the show hit the road.
Hi guys, I am sure all Madridistas know you well enough, but for others sake, please introduce yourselves.
Corey: My name is Corey and I am the Real Madrid and Spain editor/blogger on the Offside, as well as being a contributing author to sites like La Liga Weekly.
Bassam: Hey! I’m Bassam. Die hard Real Madrid fan, obviously. Of middle-eastern origin, Lebanon to be exact, but moved to California a year ago. Regretting the decision due to football coverage. Watching games on the TV is so under-rated.
Like we all know, you are the writers at The Real Madrid Offside. Can you tell us a bit about it?
Corey: The Offside is a football blog dedicated to both national and club teams, which got started a couple of years back and has won several blogging awards since then. I took over the Real Madrid page a little under three years ago, and have since had tremendous success due to a very passionate fan base.
Bassam: Well I’ve been helping Corey out in the Real Madrid offside. I’ve been providing review of games regularly for the past couple of months. I also provide some midweek posts on random Real Madrid related subjects whenever I can, and whenever Corey needs the help. The Real Madrid Offside is really an amazing place, with really regular and knowledgeable posters.
Next question, quite a simple one so to speak and something that I’ve asked all Madridistas. Why Real Madrid? And can you tell us about your life as a Real Madrid fan, as in for how long you’ve been supporting Real and why etc.?
Corey: The simple truth is that it was the first European club I ever stumbled upon, as they had won the Champions League in 1998 and there was mention of it here in the US on ESPN, as well as on the internet. They were also the team I played as in FIFA 2002 and on, which further endeared them to me. Even though I was introduced to Real Madrid through various forms of media, what really got me hooked were the all white kits, the amazing players who wanted to play for the club, the culture of winning at the club and the determination to play beautiful football while winning. As an impressionable young man, it was pretty easy to get swept up in the mystique of Real Madrid.
Bassam: Why not? I started watching football (soccer) when I was around 9 years old. First game I ever watched was a Classico. Real Madrid beat Barcelona and it started there. I’ve been a fan for around 11 years now, and I’ve barely missed a game since 2003. I’ve been through the slump of no trophies for three years, and I still supported this team and got pissed after every bad pass. I’m hooked. Let’s not forget that Madrid used to play Champagne football, so you can’t not love them.
When it comes to Real Madrid, it’s mostly about the players we’ve possessed. Anyone whom you idolized in particular?
Corey: The team that I remember most fondly was the team of the Galacticos in 2002. I have always though of Zinedine Zidane as being one of the most gifted players to ever play the game, and to see hip stropping around the field as a Real player was a real gift. But my favorite player has and always will be Raul. The first Madrid kit I ever bought (which cost me an arm and a leg as they were for sale in the US at the time) had Raul’s name on it, and when I scored goals I use to kiss the ring just like Raul. Raul, Guti, Hierro, Casillas, Salgado etc were all great servants to the club in that era and I really idolized that team.
Bassam: Definitely Iker Casillas! He hardly has a bad game, and even when he does have one, his game is at a standard so high it puts him over 99% of goal keepers. His passion to help the team is amazing. He held the team on his shoulders for many years. If you want an outfield player, then I would have to go with De Stafino. You have to admire someone who has been there for around 50 years and more.
Which would you cite as your most memorable Real Madrid moment?
Corey: There have been a lot of ups and downs the past decade, but I would say the Capello title win on the last day was great. The Champions League in 2000 and 2002 were exciting, as were several other titles, but the Capello title of 2007 will live long in the memory, as it demonstrated the great spirit of the team and the magical power of the Bernabeu. Del Bosque’s title in 2003 was exciting too because Sociedad really put up a fight.
There were also some great nights when canteranos played their first games, like Roberto Soldado, Ruben de la Red, Javi Garica, Borja and Balboa, which I will never forget because I kind of projected myself on to those players as I wished I could wear the shirt like they were.
Hopefully La Decima will be my most cherished moment some day…
Bassam: Can you really choose? If I had to pick, it will go down to the comeback win in the 2006/2007 season or the Guard of honor made by Barcelona in the second Clasico of 2007/2008 for the team since they had already sealed the league title. I will go with the latter because of your second question.
Guti to Realmadrid.com
Realmadrid.com caught up with Guti on the eve of Wednesday’s Champions League Round of 16 decider to discuss what exactly goes through a player’s head during such important matches.
The Champions League returns to the Santiago Bernabeu after a three month hiatus and in spectacular fashion. No one wants to miss this match.
It is a very important game for Madridismo and our fans. We need to turn the score around after the first leg outcome. We need to be driven and ambitious from the very start, which will get the crowd fired up for a magical night of football. We really want this after so many years of hardship in this competition. We want Real Madrid to be where it belongs.
What would be going through your mind if you were a fan watching in the Bernabeu?
I would stay very positive, but we the players also have to get that message across. If we start off strong, create early chances and really do what we have to, fans will take notice and will support the team until the very end.
The atmosphere at the Bernabeu on Champions League nights is quite special.
True. It is an special atmosphere. We have had some incredible come-from-behind wins here and played many memorable matches that led us to several finals. We hope Wednesday is similar and that the team plays up to par. It will be a tough game, but we have the talent. We will do everything we can to go through.
What does it feel like to walk onto the pitch and hear 90,000 people cheering for you?
You feel like you can’t let anyone down because they have come to see their team win. The crest and everything this shirt means imply values that must always be left on the pitch.
This tie against Lyon reminds us of those most recent magical nights like that against Bayern Munich here at the Bernabeu.
I will never forget those matches. We did badly in the first leg and knew we were up against a good team, but we stuck it out and Real Madrid came out on top.
Will that atmosphere affect Olympique Lyonnais?
We hope so. They need to feel it. The Bernabeu is an amazing stadium and hard for all visiting teams to play in. It should be a factor, especially at the beginning of the match when they will be waiting to see what our first move will be. The tie will be very much in our favor if we score early.
Guti to Realmadrid.com
Guti sat down with Realmadrid.com to discuss personal matters as well as the team’s performance of late and how Los Blancos are preparing for what is left of the season.
How do you feel?
I have recovered from the sports hernia, but I wasn’t out long enough to lose my rhythm. I am anxious to play again like I was prior to the injury.
Madridistas like the way the team is playing and scoring a lot of goals.
We didn’t start off playing at the level people wanted to see, but there were a lot of changes including new players and coach. They needed time to adapt and now we are playing well. All the new signings are performing really well, as are the guys who have been here longer.
What was the turning point?
There was a before and an after to the match against Deportivo Coruña. We were worried about that match, but we played very well and didn’t give them a chance. Since then we have been very offensive-minded. We want to score a lot of goals and to make sure that we win a title this year.
Is there still room for improvement?
Always. You need to realize that we are talking about the best players in the world. We are pleased with how they are performing, but there is always room for improvement.
Scoring eleven goals in two matches isn’t an easy feat.
It is one of our strong suits. We have a ton of striking power, like you saw in Tenerife when we scored on our first two chances. Perhaps we don’t have the ball as much as we would like, but we create a lot of danger when we do.
Barcelona aren’t playing at the same level as last year. Is now the time to cut into their two-point lead?
You must keep in mind that they have had a lot of injuries, but they have also had trouble winning matches in dominating fashion like they used to. We hope they slip up soon so that the Clasico here at the Bernabeu is the deciding match.
Zidane to Realmadrid.com
Zinedine Zidane travelled with Real Madrid to Lyon, where he told Realmadrid.com he is delighted with his new life and that he hopes the team wins the Champions League this year.
Time is kind to you. You haven’t changed one bit.
I feel fine. Not to play (laughs), but I actually feel great.
Do you miss competing?
I do sometimes. It’s always been my life, but I am delighted with what I’m doing now. My life is completely different because time affects us all, but I am happy.
This is the first trip this season in which you’ve travelled with the team.
Yes and I am very happy for it. I remembered how I used to do it all the time not so long ago.
What do you think of this year’s Real Madrid?
I think they’ve been playing very well lately. Barcelona also happened to lose on Sunday, which puts Real Madrid just a step away from leadership.
Both teams now depend on themselves.
Real Madrid have to continue playing like this. We’ll see what happens in the Real Madrid-Barcelona match at the Bernabeu in April.
Are Olympique Lyonnais very different from the team you once knew?
They aren’t the side that won seven league titles, but facing Real Madrid makes this the match of the year for them and we’ll have to watch out. Real Madrid know it won’t be easy. I’m sure it will be a great game.
Lass to Realmadrid.com
Lassana Diarra talked to RealmadridTV and Realmadrid.com about life in Madrid, the Champions League and La Liga.
How do you feel after your return from injury?
I feel good. Not as well as I would like, so I still have some work to do. I hope I get to where I want to be in the next few days.
There have been lots of changes this season. Last year you were always first choice, but now there are lots of options in the midfield. Do you like this competition?
It has always been like that since I started playing football. Big teams always have that competition. The manager has to make a choice when there are so many good players to choose from. You have to be fit and play at a high level all the time. It’s good for the team. Sometimes the players don’t want this kind of competition, but I think it is good for everyone because you work more and get better, and in the end everyone wins. It is good for everyone.
You have adapted so well to the Primera. Do you think it had to do with the fact that you played in the English Premiership?
Of course. I played for two big teams in England so it helped me a lot. I started to play for big teams when I was young so I learned a lot from good managers and good players. I think I can deal with this kind of situation because I know what can happen in team’s like this one. This is why I have adapted well since coming here.
There has been a lot of talk about referees at the moment here in Spain. What do you think the difference is between English and Spanish refereeing? Spanish referees appear to be more strict.
The mentality between football in England and here is completely different. They don’t like contact here. If I play like I play in England I get shown a lot of yellow cards. I need to be a little calmer here. It is different, but I have to deal with it.
We have seen you getting forward more this season. You have scored a goal, you take more chances… How much has it helped having Xabi Alonso there to allow you to get forward?
Xabi Alonso likes to maintain possession of the ball and change it to the left or right. It is good for the team because we have more possession of the ball because of him. It allows me to move a little more forward and take my chances.
Do you speak to him in English or in Spanish?
In both. I can speak a little Spanish but only on the pitch (laughs).
The backheel of Riazor
Everybody’s talking about it. Guti’s astonishing heel pass against Deportivo is what everybody in the football world is discussing. The midfielder shares his views on what he pulled off on Saturday with El Mundo.
It’s amazing how people are talking about it. I didn’t score a single goal at Riazor. Benzema scored. I always knew what to do. I didn’t hesiitate. I knew Benzema was coming up behind me. I could see him from the corner of my eye. I did what I thought was the most useful option for the team to score.
I don’t do heel passes out of the blue. I will always do it as long as I’m convinced it’s the best option for us. If I hadn’t had it clear in my mind I would have shot on target.
Many of my team-mates said I should have tried to score. Albiol said I was crazy. But that’s my style. It comes naturally to me. It makes me happier to give a pass like that than to score a goal.
I’m glad people liked what I did. It’s nice to hear that it could eventually become an historical play. I never thought it was such a big deal.
I want the team to take centre stage. We played after Barcelona did and we felt a lot of pressure. I think this victory will do us a lot of good because it seemed we were cursed at that stadium. The league is far from over and Barcelona don’t seem to drop any points. We can’t afford to make any mistakes.
Casillas to uefa.com
In the latest edition of Champions, the official magazine of the UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid CF’s Iker Casillas discusses his goalkeeping heroes. Here are his top ten in his own words.
Peter Schmeichel
This list is not in any particular order, but if I were to choose my number-one all-time No1, then it would be Peter Schmeichel. Simply the best. I first saw him on television when I was just a kid and thought, ‘Wow … this lad is invincible!’ I was eleven at the time and Schmeichel was playing for Denmark in the 1992 [UEFA] European Championship. He was just fantastic. The impression he left was of sheer perfection. From then on I knew I wanted to be just like him: he became my football hero. I followed him closely after that, watching him on the telly at every opportunity. I wanted to learn from him.
Gianluigi Buffon
It is hard to know where to begin when it comes to pinpointing his outstanding qualities, he has so many. And it’s impossible to pick out a weakness. One of the most important qualities in a goalkeeper is calmness – an ability to stay cool under pressure is very important – and if he can transmit that quality to the defence and to his team-mates, it has a very positive effect on the way the team play. Buffon’s presence reassures his colleagues. He is the contemporary keeper everyone playing in goal looks up to and aspires to emulate.
Oliver Kahn
King Kahn or the Titan, they called him – which says it all. He is certainly a very different character to me, and it’s fair to say he was quite eccentric. I don’t know if that helps a goalkeeper, but it certainly worked for Kahn. I’ve always said your mental approach to the game and state of mind is more important than physical preparation – and for me, the ideal presence in goal is one of stability and calm. Kahn was nothing like that, but at the end of the day he has won more trophies than any other keeper in history.
Casillas to AS
Iker Casillas sat down with Spanish newspaper AS to comment on various aspects of the team prior to Saturday’s match.
Intentions:
We are going to La Coruña to win. We cannot let the three points slip through our fingers.
Cristiano Ronaldo:
Cristiano didn’t intend on elbowing Mtiliga, who wasn’t at fault for having his head where it was. He gets hit but there was no intention of doing any harm. Two matches is excessive and undeserved.
Filipe Luis:
It’s a shame he cannot play. He grew up in our academy and was an exceptional player.
Benzema:
Karim has a lot of Zidane’s attributes. I like the gestures his makes. He scores a lot of goals in training and everything will come in due course.
Sergio Ramos to Don Balon
Sergio Ramos commented on himself and several of his teammates in an interview with football magazine Don Balon.
Current form:
I feel good. Physically, mentally, spiritually and I am confident, all of which are crucial for a footballer. I continue reaching my best form and my best moment.
It is important to remain stout and to try to make my teammates know that I am doing my best so that it rubs off and shows in their performance. I think the defense is doing a great job in that regard.
Cristiano Ronaldo:
I was surprised to see how professional he his and his work ethic. He is obsessed with improving and reaching perfection. It is good to have players who know how to compete and train because you can learn a thing or two from them.
Karim Benzema:
He is phenomenal. He has adapted quickly. We have given him a lot of support. He is a natural born goal-scorer and he will reach his best form with Real Madrid. The sky is his limit.
Xabi Alonso to Realmadrid.com
In an interview with Realmadrid.com, Xabi Alonso briefly analyzed how the team is playing and what it must do to continue improving.
If you play well does Madrid play well?
No. If Madrid play well then I probably play well. I think we all need one another. This is a team sport, so we need everyone to do well.
Has the Bernabeu seen the best version of you?
I think I have played an important rold and I am happy, but I am still adjusting. I am improving, as is the team. I feel more comfortable each day. The team is attacking and defending better. The more balanced we are the better.
What about the best version of Kaka?
There will always be comparisons with the past and many of us have room for improvement.
Does Cristiano Ronaldo still have something to prove?
He can do much more and I am sure he will.
Does the team need to play smarter football?
In my position I have to read the game well, understand what the team needs, provide balance, organize as much as possible and communicate with teammates.
Does that require keeping a cooler head than the rest of the team?
Sometimes, but there are others when tempers can flare. But you do need to have some perspective, distance yourself and try to read the game.
Albiol to Realmadrid.com
Raul Albiol talked to Realmadrid.com about his aspirations on the team and Saturday’s match against Athletic Bilbao, amongst many other things.
You’ve been a Madridista for six months. Have you realised yet what it means to be a centre back at Real Madrid?
It is a great responsibility on a daily basis. You have to do your best in every game because there is little room for error. That’s what makes you improve as a player. My goal upon arrival was to be a centre back here for many years and prove I can play on this team. I hope never to fail.
Some legendary Real Madrid centre backs achieved that status due to playing on the team for many years. Do you see yourself making history as they did?
I’ve only just arrived and you have to do your best for many years in order to make history. I have a lot to improve on to reach their status. You have to take things slowly and work very hard. Hopefully, once I retire, I can look back and say I was a centre back at a great team like Real Madrid. This Club has had great centre backs throughout its history.
Goyo Benito, Santamaria and Pirri marked an era on the team…
I am very young and never watched them play, but my dad has told me about the great Real Madrid centre backs of his day. I remember Sanchis and Hierro.
What do you remember of Sanchis?
Everyone talks well of him. His positioning and delivery of the ball made him one of the great Real Madrid centre backs. He had a lot of character and personality.
What do you remember of Hierro?
I think he was one of the best centre backs in football history. He was very elegant. It was a delight to watch him play. It is a real pleasure to have the chance to talk to him on the Spanish national team.
The first leg of La Liga is about to end. What do you think so far?
I think it’s been good. We’ve gradually improved on our game and we hope to continue doing so. We can’t afford to make any mistakes because Barcelona are taking many points. We’ll have to take as many as we can to win the title.
Pepe to Realmadrid.com
Pepe returned to Valdebebas to meet with the Medical Staff and the Club’s physiotherapists. The player expressed the excitement and anxiousness he feels for beginning his recovery programme.
How do you feel?
I feel very well. I’m happy because I’m recovering well from surgery. I am rather anxious to begin my recovery programme.
How have your first days back at work been like?
I began working after I had surgery. The following day I started exercising to recover mobility on my knee as soon as possible. I’m gradually recovering my strength and I expect to stop using crutches in one or two weeks. The important thing is that everything went fine and that I’m motivated to get back into shape.
What have your team-mates said to you?
They have great hearts. They teased me a bit about my hair… They’ve always supported me and they seem to be happy to see me recover from my injury.
What did the doctor say when you talked to him?
He says I’m fine and that my recovery is going according to the schedule we devised. I have to hear from the physiotherapists and start tackling the recovery strategy they’ve set for me.
Are you psychologically stronger now?
I once said the messages of support that were sent to the Club’s website would help me gather strength. The support from my team-mates also did. I will work hard for all their sakes. I will always smile and be as joyful as possible. I just want things to go as well as they’ve done so far.
What are your goals for the new year?
I want to work, work and work some more. I just think about recovering my strength and grow confident during my recovery.
Cristiano Ronaldo to FIFA.com
Moments before taking the stage at the Kongresshaus in Zurich for the FIFA World Player Gala 2009, the Madrid superstar made time for a chat with FIFA.com about his current form and the challenges awaiting him on the horizon.
FIFA.com: Cristiano Ronaldo, you were nominated for the first edition of the FIFA Puskás Award, which is given to the scorer of the finest goal of the year, thanks to your strike against FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League. Tell us a bit about that effort.
Cristiano Ronaldo: It was unbelievable! I’m not saying that just because I scored it, but because it was truly fantastic. If you asked me how to score a goal like that I wouldn’t be able to tell you. It’s just hitting it hard and seeing the net billow, that’s all. This is a great award. It’s really good that FIFA are putting another award up for grabs at this Gala.
Portugal have been drawn in a very tough group at South Africa 2010. What went through your mind when you saw how the Final Draw turned out?
It’s going to be a very difficult group. Côte d’Ivoire, Brazil and North Korea are all very good sides. But there’s no point complaining about that now. What we’ve got to do is go there and show how well we can play football, like we’ve done in our last few national team games. We know it’ll be hard but I think we can do it.
Which game will be key to progressing from that group?
Well, I think they all will. Our team is the key, we have to be focused. Regarding our opening game with Côte d’Ivoire: they’re a team of physically strong players and, like us, they’ll be incredibly motivated. It’s going to be very tough but I think that Portugal have a better team and we’re going to do our best to win.
Portugal really struggled in qualifying while injury caused you to miss out on the team’s decisive final games. How did that feel?
Yes, the qualifying phase was very difficult indeed, but you can’t win anything without hard work and sacrifice. That’s what happened with Portugal. To be honest I couldn’t help much because of the injuries I had; I was always on my way back (from injury). There are several factors which contributed to me not having a good qualifying phase. But I’m confident that things will be different at the World Cup, and that I’ll be fit and on form to help Portugal achieve great results.
Pellegrini to AS
“During this holiday season, I would like to wish all Real Madrid fans a happy 2010,” said Manuel Pellegrini as Spanish newspaper AS caught up with the Madridista coach.
First five months
I am not surprised because I always knew what this team had to offer. There is talent and commitment. The second half of the season should be very exciting.
Team play
You must first evaluate the players you have and then adapt to them. I coached Villarreal for five years and the team’s style was more than just touching, circulating the ball and play making. On this Madrid team there are many more direct players. I also insist that the Bernabeu enjoys watching its team reach the box faster. It likes constant pressure in the box and it doesn’t have the so much patience for us to seek open spaces.
Fixed lineup
We had eight matches a month when the season began and there was no time to work midweek. I wasn’t able to have a set starting eleven and had to rotate players. I tried many formulas to find the right combination and adjustments were made. This Madrid is playing the way I like. We search for the opponent’s goal, we defend with fewer players, we attack as fast as we can and we try to hold onto the football.
Pepe to Realmadrid.com
Pepe has already made tremendous progress in his recovery. Two days ago he was a man completely discouraged because of the severity of his injury, but after receiving so much support over the last 24 hours, Pepe is convinced he can make a quick recovery. He has read all the messages sent in by teammates and fans and confesses to having had trouble holding back the tears. In return for all the “get-well” messages, the Madridista defender has sent this heartfelt message: “Thank you to you all. I know I will return much sooner.”
How do you feel?
I went through a difficult time after the game and on Sunday. I had to assimilate what happened to me and I must now gather strength to recover. I feel better today to start recovery. I wish to thank everyone who has supported me. Everyone’s been phenomenal. I am grateful to the Club, to my team-mates and everyone who has expressed his or her support through Realmadrid.com. I’ll come back for them. I will dedicate my first games following my recovery to them.
What did you think when you realised it wasn’t just a simple blow to the knee?
I will never forget that play with Villa. I jumped and experienced no pain when I landed, but I noticed harsh pain when I started running again and I realised I had hurt myself. I asked to be substituted quickly so that whoever came on for me warmed up quickly because the game was being rather tough and complicated. I knew I couldn’t get back on the pitch with the pain I felt.
It’s inevitable not to cry in days like these. I’m sure you’ve shed some tears…
I admit I have. I’m human and it’s inevitable to be hurt when something like this happens. Many things go through your mind, but the worst time was when the doctor told me I had torn my anterior cruciate ligament. I had hopes for it not to be that serious, but I couldn’t avoid crying when the diagnosis was made. Everything changed when I arrived home and saw the Club’s official website. I gathered a lot of strength thanks to all the messages of support. I wanted to come back just to thank these magnificent fans for their support.
Villa even called you after the match…
My injury was really bad luck. Villa had nothing to do with it, but I am very grateful for his support. He told me he was having a rough time about it, which was important to me. Before the game I said Villa is the striker that puts me to the test the most and it will continue to be so. I will return and I will play many games against him, as long as he doesn’t happen to join this squad in the future. Barcelona’s Puyol also sent me a text message expressing his support, which was a very nice gesture.
Florentino Perez and Valdano were with you during half-time.
They gave me all their support and they told me the Club would help me any way it could. They treated me impeccably well. I thank them for their help at such a difficult time.
Your team-mates showed their affection this morning. Some visited you at home on Tuesday. The support of the squad is important, isn’t it?
Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcelo and Iker, as one of the captains, came to see me. I was very happy and grateful to them. Their support is very important, just as much as that from the people who wrote messages on Realmadrid.com. These moments are very emotional and unforgettable.
Pyschology 101 according to Granero
Esteban Granero isn’t your typical 22-year old football player. The Madridista midfielder is also in his junior year of university, where he is studying psychology.
One of the rest:
I’m just your average student. I study what everyone else does, I take the same exams and I am graded the same way. I don’t get any special treatment other than being able to arrange make-up days to take my exams and finding an easier way to get a hold of class notes. I am fascinated with everything that has to do with the biology of the brain, the physiology of emotions and whatnot. I am also interested in behavioral and conditioning studies.
TEC-Sanitas High Performance Center:
It is designed to help your mind relax or be stimulated through the use of imaging. Depending on the speed and the sequence of images, your brain and nervous system are either relaxed or stimulated. I have seen the machine, but I have yet to try it.
Psychology on the pitch:
There has been a lot of physical, tactical and technical innovation during training session, but it appears that the physcological element, which is just as important, has been left by the way side. Every single day and in every match we prove that it is just as important. A great example is when you see teams that possess fewer tactical or physical skills beat what are considered better teams; perhaps because they are more confident. Imagine you are a striker that has trained his mind to focus only on the game or to always think about scoring when on the pitch. Imagine a striker who has a never-ending scoring streak. It would be great.
Higuain to AS
Gonzalo Higuain gave an interview to AS. The Argentine gave a stellar performance against Valencia, scoring two goals for Real Madrid.
Are you the starting striker of Real Madrid?
No, I’m just another player on the squad.
I wish to congratulate you for the goals you scored against Valencia.
Thank you. The truth is i’m having my best moment since I arrived at Real Madrid. I feel comfortable and I’m enjoying myself. I have great confidence in what we do and in myself.
Was the match against Valencia the best the team’s had this season?
We believe so, especially because the match in itself was very important. We distanced ourselves from a direct opponent and we beat them when things got tough.
It also helped you to keep Barcelona in check. How did the squad celebrate the victory?
We took it as a vital victory, just like all the rest we’ve earned this season.
You once told us you understood Benzema’s difficult situation because you went through something similar. How did you understand each other against Valencia?
It was phenomenal. We pulled off several plays with one or two toches on ball together. We both did well in defence. We must now pull it off again.
Were you happy for him?
Of course. I’m always glad for my team-mates. I am very gretful for the assist he served me.
You gave him a hug.
The goal belonged to both of us. Against Valencia, Karim proved to have adapted to the team. He is doing a great job. I believe the work we did in the first defensive line was very important. The coach has stressed the importance of defending there.
Van der Vaart to Realmadrid.com
After a rough start to the season, Rafael van der Vaart has earned the coach’s confidence and won over the fans’ hearts.
Congratulations for the great match you played against Olympique de Marseille. Was it one of your best since joining Real Madrid?
I think so. It was a tough match but we knew how to respond to the circumstances. It was my first Champions League start and I felt good on the pitch.
Did we see the true Van der Vaart out there?
I want to be important to this team. I play in an important position and I have felt good in recent games. I am getting into a rhythm, which is important having not played very much.
You are also in great shape.
We train a lot. I have waited for my chance since the season began. I always wanted to be in great shape so that the coach could rely on me when needed.
What have you done to earn the coach’s confidence?
It has been hard. I know I was called on because of Kaka’s injury, but I am patient and will fight for a spot. I work hard in training and the coach takes notice.
These last few months haven’t been easy on you.
The preseason wasn’t easy for me, but things have changed and I am happy, which is also reflected on the pitch.
Have you received fan support over this time period?
Of course, and I still do. They now have more faith in me and the team.
Miguel Pardeza interview
Sporting Director Miguel Pardeza believes the team will win in Marseille and reach the Last 16.
Do you think it’s possible for Real Madrid to lose with a three-goal cushion?
No. I haven’t even dreamt it in my worst nightmares. I am incredibly optimistic and I’m convinced that the team will pull through. It would be fair for Real Madrid to win and reach the next round. Despite the defeat against Milan at home, the team has done well and deserves to reach the next round.
Do you regard Diawara’s comments as a provocation?
I don’t think they are. It’s hard for me to believe that a footballer has bad intentions. It was a very harsh tackle, but I don’t think he was looking to hurt anyone. I would nevertheless ask him not to hit Ronaldo the same way again so that he doesn’t miss another two months. It’s been a long time both for the player and for the team.
How do you think Cristiano Ronaldo will feel at a stadium as passionate as the Stade Velodrome?
I think he will be very motivated. Cristiano is terribly ambitious. We saw that the other day. He never gives up a match. No one on this team does. That’s good to win titles. The players must believe in their chances. Cristiano has always done so and he will continue to do so.
Have you spoken to him so that he avoids doing what he did the other day again?
It’s hard to restrain oneself at times in a game. I think he realised what he did. Difficult situations sometimes force players to make mistakes. The important thing is that players realise when they’ve made a mistake and that they try not to repeat it. They defend the Real Madrid crest, which besides titles symbolises cordiality and sportsmanship.
Will the Club punish players in the future for similar actions?
The Club has an internal disciplinary system. We react whenever the code has been breached in order to stand by our code of conduct.
Higuain to uefa.com
After netting 22 top-flight goals last season, Real Madrid CF striker Gonzalo Higuaín has picked up where he left off, leading the Merengues’ Liga scoring chart this term and being rewarded with a first Argentina cap in October. The arrivals of Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká at the Santiago Bernabéu might have had the 21-year-old fearing for his place, but he is again proving a key part of a side striving, as he tells uefa.com readers in this Q&A, to “become the best team in the world”.
With the arrivals of Ronaldo, Benzema and Kaká, did you think you would get a place in the starting XI? Personally I think you are in the best form of your career. Is that fair?
Raymond Asare
Gonzalo Higuaín: Well, this is Madrid and the club always tries to be the best, so you know the best players will keep coming. I knew this before coming here and I never complain. I fight every day to be in the first XI and never give up, but I also understand there is a team and a coach who will pick the players to help the club win every week. If I’m one of them, then I try to give everything for the team.
Can this team reach the heights of the Madrid side with Ronaldo and Zidane in the early 2000s?
Mpho Rapudubudu, South Africa
Higuaín: I don’t like comparisons. No one can doubt or question how well the 2000 Madrid team played and what it meant to the club to have players like Ronaldo, Raúl, Zidane, Figo or Makelele. They won the Champions League and we have not, but we are striving to do ‘the impossible’ and win and earn a place in history just like they did.
Are Real Madrid strong enough to win the UEFA Champions League?
Mihai Buzduceanu
Higuaín: Yes, Real Madrid always have a chance of winning the Champions League, no matter what the scenario, for one simple reason: Real are the greatest team in the world and that forces you to always take the starring role, to go forward and to win. If this sounds simple in practice, it is very difficult to achieve.
What have you learned from playing with Ronaldo and Kaká? Any new tricks?
Steve Main, Cleveland, Ohio
Higuaín: They are amazing in every way. On the pitch they are two ‘cracks’, as we say about the big stars, but off the pitch they are the same as the rest of us, which to me is very important. They are two very simple and humble men.
Which team-mate do you enjoying playing with most?
Kamal Qasem, Gaza
Higuaín: At Madrid I have the privilege of sharing a dressing room with some of the biggest stars in the world. I think I have a good understanding with Raúl because I’ve played in the same team as him for almost three years. It’s the same with Ruud van Nistelrooy. Having said that, with players like Kaká, Ronaldo and Benzema, I’ve been able to strike up an understanding very quickly because they’re great players which makes things very simple. When you’re on a pitch with players of that quality, it’s very difficult not to enjoy playing alongside them. Moves are much easier.
Just another Madridista
Hala Madrid 
Junta speak