So what is good enough for Florentino Perez?
To be fair to him Jose Mourinho is the World’s best coach. His style of coaching, the way he carries himself, the way he protects his players, the way he strives to win is something that no one else in this World is capable of doing. He has won wherever he has been. He is The Special One. No doubts about it. But all I want to ask is whether he is good enough for Real.
It is a fact that Vicente Del Bosque wasn’t good enough even though he won us the League Title and managed the Galacticos like no one else possibly could have. Fabio Capello wasn’t good enough even though he won us the title in one of the greatest sporting comebacks. Bernd Schuster wasn’t good enough even though his team breezed past the rest of Spain to win us our 31st title. Juande Ramos wasn’t good enough even though he took the worst ever Real Madrid team in a decade up to second place in the league. And now even Manuel Pellegrini is not considered to be good enough to manage this team despite the 102 goals that the team scored and the fact that they challenged the best Barcelona side in Catalan history right up till Match day 38. The above five managers are the only prominent ones amongst the rest who came and went just like summer and winter every year who too weren’t good enough. So is Jose Mourinho good enough? Clearly good enough does not mean winning titles. Except Manuel Pellegrini and barring the temp in Juande Ramos the others mentioned above won titles for us.
So what is good enough for Florentino Perez? Going by what the above mentioned managers it is the following. A manager good enough to remain at Real for more than one season must satisfy the following conditions:
- Win La Liga and the Champions League. Either won’t do. A double is the minimum requirement.
- A treble will be amazing. But winning Copa del Rey alone will help no one as the trophy which Real haven’t won in ages isn’t really appealing.
- Win both legs of the Clasico.
- Play the team which Florentino wants you to play.
- Sign the players he wants to see and sell the players he doesn’t want to see even if that means playing a one man defense with no goal keepers.
- Concede 1789654 goals in 90 minutes of football but score 1789655 goals at least in which case the last goal comes in the 93rd minute.
- Do not buy players who are black and cannot dress up for an Nike commercial to be aired in Hong Kong.
- Do not buy players for whom young ladies with big boobs carry signs saying “Marry me XYZ!”
- Buy defenders who offer something more than playing in defense alone – something like improving the number of Spaniards in your squad.
- Sell or at least try to sell else don’t pay them enough for all the players who were brought in under a different regime.
Has Jose really agreed to do all of these? Can anyone do all these in the same season? Is the Bernabeu the right stage for Mourinho style football? There are so many more unanswered questions that only time can answer.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Cristiano Ronaldo Update: Madridista reactions
Kaká:
I rejoice in the signing of Cristiano. I do not want to talk any more about this subject because I am here with the Selecao and we are only thinking about winning the Confederations Cup. But there’s no doubt that Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best players in the world and he will help Real Madrid fight for every title next season.
Iker Casillas:
Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player, without doubt. I believe that if Real Madrid do the deal then he will help return the club to No.1 in the world. Ronaldo will be welcomed by the dressing room. I prefer that Ronaldo and Kaka are part of our team, rather than playing for opponents. We need to win something next year because our supporters deserve it – and with these players we will have more of a chance. They are the new Galacticos and know what it is like to win the league and European Cup.
Pepe:
I’m very happy because it is another Portuguese player who will be in Spanish football and I hope it’s completed as soon as possible. The transfer will make history, but Real know Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential well and the qualities he has to help the club perform.
Ramon Calderon:
It’s going to be a big event for Real Madrid – Ronaldo is going to add a lot to my club. Last season, Manchester United decided not to do it because they thought it was too early. Everyone involved in the operation agreed to do it this season. That is what I can say. I don’t mind that I was unable to sign him during my presidency. I am a Real fan and I’m very happy. The most important thing is the club. Real are very well organized with a lot of income, and the new president [Perez] can now spend the money I made and saved. We needed to improve by one or two players, and that’s what Perez has done by signing Kaka and Ronaldo.
Juande Ramos:
Am I surprised (that Ronaldo is joining Real Madrid)? No, because I knew it would happen at some stage. We already knew that Real Madrid had a pre-contract agreement with Cristiano Ronaldo and that it was only a matter of time. I don’t know exactly when that agreement was made, but I do know it was in place.
Claude Makelele:
My former club needed this transfer (Ronaldo) to tell the world that they are still the most famous team on the planet. I think they have gone backwards in the last few years when you compare them to Barcelona and Manchester United. People, me included, will say it is a lot of money, but it is worth it for a player of that quality. If Mr Perez has invested that money, it is because he feels he can recoup it. And I think Ronaldo is worth it. They now need to focus on their defence and they can become a force again. Manchester United and Barcelona are still the teams to beat next season, because with the money they now have United will be stronger again next season.
Gabriel Heinze:
I have a year left on my contract at Madrid, but the media have said that I don’t figure in the plans of the new coach. I have not spoken with anyone about this. I would love to play with Ronaldo and Kaka. Cristiano Ronaldo will be a great buy for Real Madrid. He is a fantastic player and can succeed at any club in the world. I have not spoken with him yet but I am glad an agreement has been reached. I know that he is an ambitious player and his dream will be to become the best at Real Madrid. There is a lot of talk about the size of the transfer. But a player can only be judged on what he does every week on the field and not the amount he is getting paid. It must have been a hard decision for him to leave Manchester United, but I am sure he is ready for a new adventure.
Carlos Queiroz:
I want to congratulate Cristiano. This is a dream that had been there for a year, or at least since I’ve known him. Just like (former Portuguese internationals) Luis Figo and Rui Costa, Ronaldo is an example of a talented player, who through his past work coupled with the serious and rigorous preparation done at their clubs and with the federation, has allowed him to culminate his dream.
Zinedine Zidane:
It’s a relief for me because the cost of Cristiano has seen me lose that record, which was quite heavy to carry. You could say that thanks to Cristiano I could breathe again.
Gracias Juande!
Juande Ramos posted praiseworthy stats during his six months as head coach of Real Madrid.
Despite losing five straight matches to finish the season, Juande Ramos did an excellent job during his six-month stint as head coach. Ramos inherited a Madridista squad that was fifth in the table and managed to lead them to a runner-up finish with over five matches still to be played. The Whites finished the second half of the season with three more points than Mallorca and Barcelona, four ahead of Atletico Madrid and were three and five points away from the best second half in club history and league history, respectively. Real also set a new record for the most consecutive road wins (8), were one victory away from the most road wins in one season (12), and only two goals shy of the most away goals in one campaign (36).
Juande Ramos bid farewell to Madridismo and the club through a letter on his website.
It is time to say goodbye and until next time. It was an exciting, intense adventure full of hard work. I would accept the same challenge again even with my eyes closed.
I accepted the job to coach Real Madrid for six months knowing the challenge it entaild and the circumstances the team found itself in. We had to correct a string of poor results. The team was fifth in the table, but I like difficult challenges, which is why I didn’t ask for a contract under different terms. I walked into an excellent group of professionals with the best predisposition possible. The commitment put forth was unwavering. I saught their affinity and it was unconditional. Together we began to believe and made others believe that the league title was possible.
They were six months of intense work, but I had a great time. I also received the full collaboration of all the club’s professionals. Together we created a winning attitude accompanied by an excellent run of results. We created excitement among fans. We found ourselves up against a better opponent. We tried and gave it our all, but it wasn’t to be. I have a clear conscience. The team finished second and qualified for the Champions League much earlier than I first thought possible.
I would like to thank all those who had confidence in my work. I would like to offer my gratitude to Vicente Boluda for his support at all times. And to my direct collaborators; those who helped the team on a daily basis.
Above all, my thanks to the fans for the kind hearts they opened to me. The team wouldn’t have gotten to where it did without their help. I feel cared for and appreciated by the Madridista family. To all, including those who personally shared their feelings with me and those who sent messages through my website, thank you. My greatest satisfaction is the care and affection received over the last several months.
I would have liked to stay on as coach of Real Madrid. It is a logical feeling. I feel capable based on technical resources, experience and titles won, but I understand perfectly that new projects bring with them new ideas and new professionals. I understand that my image corresponds to a stage that has ended. I wish all the new staff the very best because that is what is best for Real Madrid. No one knows if destiny will bring us together again. It was a fascinating adventure.
My best wishes and a hug for all.
Goodbye Juande!
Hala Madrid!!
Post-match comments
Real Madrid Castilla’s Gary and Tebar were pleased with their first team debuts against Osasuna. Despite losing the final match of the season, Juande Ramos was satisfied with his players’ performance. Michel Salgado and Marcelo offererd their thoughts on Real Madrid’s final match of the season.
Gary:
I wasn’t able to finish the match because all the hype caught up to me and I began cramping up. I am happy that the coach had faith in me and my teammates supported the decision. It’s a shame I coudn’t finish. The team was right there, but the two red cards, especially Michel’s, changed the course of the match. Everything having to do with the first team is different than Castilla. This experience is incredible.
Tebar:
I am somewhat pleased. I am happy that I debut, but I wish we had at least drawn. Osasuna took advantage of our two red cards, but we hung in there. It’s a pity we couldn’t finish off the season with a better result. This was a great opportunity. It was very special. The coach gave me some instructions before I came on. He said it was a tough match and that I should stay calm.
Juande:
Nerves tend to run wild when there is so much at stake. The referee has some tough calls to make. There was a lot of tension, but we tried to put forth our best effort to not affect the outcome of the league.The lack of motivation in football is hard to explain. When the season ended for us we noticed a bit of relaxation.
The red card was a bad call. I think everyone saw it, but the referee believed it was a foul and I have nothing more to say. A player must ask for forgiveness after doing something badly, but they don’t say they are sorry or correct themselves. I don’t decide if I will be playing for Real Madrid next year. It’s up to the new coach. The names of the president and coach have yet to be decided, but they will call the shots. I hope this wasn’t my last match for Real Madrid. It’s hard to comment on the relegation of Betis, but it would have been just as hard had it been Osasuna, Getafe or Valladolid. It’s a sad day for football.
Marcelo:
The fans went crazy for their team. It was already a complicated match before the send-offs, but we played as best we could and had a chance to score the equaliser. The season got off to a rocky start, but the second half was very good other than the last few matches. I am pleased with how I finished the season, but I want to continue working hard.
Juande press conference
Juande Ramos gave his last pre-match press conference of the season. The coach said the team’s run in the second leg has been successful.
Has it been hard to come up with the squad list given the many injuries the team sustains?
We’ve come up with an 18-man squad list, which proves we have enough players to have a solid line-up in order to try to play a good game and earn a good result in Pamplona.
Isn’t it too much of a coincidence to sustain so many injuries in the last game?
I believe in my men’s professional attitude. I have a positive way of thinking and I believe those who can’t play really can’t.
What does Guti have? Have you spoken to him?
Guti has a niggle on one of his ankles. Every player is the same and I make all of my decisions in the interest of Real Madrid. I only worry about the team as a whole.
Do you have a feeling this might be your last press conference as Real Madrid’s coach?
I don’t. This is just the last game of the season. I still have one month left on my contract and I don’t know what will happen when it’s over. My duty is to be at the helm of the team until 30 June.
What would you think if the Club signs Pellegrini?
He is a magnificent coach who’s done a great job at Villarreal, but the decision has nothing to do with me.
How would you describe your stint at Real Madrid?
I think it has been successful. We were fifth on the table, nine points behind Barcelona when we arrived. We played at a very high level for five months and we’ve taken more points than in the previous two seasons. Our numbers are very positive. When the Club signed us people doubted the team could react the way it did. That’s why we were offered a bonus if we managed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. If we don’t count the games that followed our Bernabeu clash against Barcelona, which I call the ‘trash minutes’ because nothing was at stake for us, I would say the team has done an exceptional job.
Would you have liked to coach the team from the start of the campaign?
Every coach would like to start his own project. I didn’t take part in the building of this squad and I would have liked to. Nevertheless, these players have managed to play at a very high level.
Do you feel you’ve missed the chance to make history at Real Madrid?
I knew I was going to be here six months when I signed; many things have happened to the institution since. The Madridistas I have spoken to all say I am ready to coach Real Madrid. I don’t feel I’ve missed anything. I may get another chance or at a different club of equal prestige.
If you leave now, would you return if the Club called you again in the future?
I’m a professional, and as such I’m always ready to hear any offers. I can only say now that I am delighted with my stint at Real Madrid.
Barcelona have played at a different level this season…
I have already congratulated them for their football; they’ve won every title and I’m happy for Pep and some of the players I know there. Unfortunately for us, we had to fight against a superb Barcelona, one of the best there’s ever been. Our excellent numbers have been tarnished by Barcelona.
Post-match comments
Real Madrid coach Juande Ramos discussed Sunday’s defeat againt Mallorca during the post-match press conference. With no more matches to play at the Santiago Bernabeu this season, Vicente Boluda discussed the future of Real Madrid. Like most of their teammates, Dani Parejo and Gonzalo Higuain were visibly upset Real Madrid were unable to win their final home match of the season.
Juande Ramos:
It’s hard to play when there is nothing at stake because you relax unknowingly. The team has allowed opponents to get the best of them in recent matches.
Not only has he been slowed by ankle problems, but Guti also had a family matter and was unable to train. That is why I didn’t put him on my squad list. Our relationship is great. I needed other players and that’s it. He asked for permission and I gave it to him.
We have a week to prepare for Osasuna. Wehave to see who we have injured and who we can recover. We must play our very best and not distort the competition in any manner. Real Madrid can at any moment find itself in a similar situation, which is why we must be professional. We must play with fire in our bellies. We know we’re not in the best shape mentally, but we obligated to play the best we can.
I am upset because we lost, but I haven’t said goodbye to anyone. It was Cannavaro who bid farewell.
When there is something on the line a team will always be tense and give its very best, but when there is nothing at stake its only normal that you take your foot off the gas. No one is at fault. It is all of us or none of us. The players are people, and when they don’t have to fight they won’t put forth their very best effort.
Vicente Boluda:
We would have liked to win, but I understand. The team finished second and no matter what happens, that’s the final standing. It’s very hard to play when not motivated, but what else can we do? The team did what it had to do until it didn’t have a chance. We won 18 straight matches; a spectacular record. With the points we ended up with we could have won many leagues. I stayed to do what has been done: unite Madridismo and install order. We peacefully held another Assembly and we called elections. Every team starts from scratch and next year Real Madrid will as well. I hope we win a title next year. I endorse the announcement the club delivered. As of today Real Madrid have not signed Cristiano Ronaldo. He has nothing to do with this club.
Parejo:
I am happy that I was able to play, but am sad that we couldn’t please the fans. They deserve it. It was a tough match for both teams. We started off well by scoring early, but that’s football for you. They scored three great goals and we couldn’t respond. We wanted to win for the fans and for us. Luck wasn’t on our sidea and now we need to begin preparing for the next match. Osasuna are in a tough predicament.
Higuain:
It’s hard to play when there is nothing to fight for. It’s complicated, but we have to think about the next match and try to win it. It was Cannavaro’s last match and he lives with his head held high. It’s a shame because we all love him and will miss him a lot. Thanks to the fans, who always stand by us. It hurts to finish like this after such a great second half of the season.
Juande Ramos press conference
Juande Ramos didn’t comment on the forthcoming election or his future during Saturday’s press conference.
We have seen you spend more time alone this week. Is that just our perception or do you really feel that way?
It’s your perception. We are working just like every other day and trying to be in the best possible form for the match.
How do you feel when you read names of coaches in the press?
I can’t discuss what is published because I don’t know if it is true or not. I don’t know anything about the matter and therefore pay little attention.
Will you be more sensitive towards those who may be playing their last match at the Bernabeu?
Real Madrid players must defend their shirt until the very end. While the points now don’t have the value they used to, We must win the game, play as serious as possible and defend this shirt. The decisions I make will be made with winning the points in mind. Players who deserve to be recognized by the fans will be.
Do you feel like you arrived during a down time for Real Madrid?
Things are what they are and happen for a reason. The situation was normal when I arrived and then everything unraveled. We don’t like it, but we must accept it and do the best we can to get over it.
Do you think next season’s Real Madrid is putting the cart before the horse?
I am currently the coach of Real Madrid and all opinions are respectable. Everyone does what he feels is best for the club. I don’t know if it being worked on from within or not.
May tomorrow be your last match at the Bernabeu?
That would make sense since my contract expires on 30 June.
Would you have liked the fans to have enjoyed seeing better football?
Generally speaking we are satisfied with what the team has accomplished. Everyone would like to enjoy it more, but the results achieved are super taking into consideration the way the team worked.
Have you been contacted about next season?
I cannot confirm that because I don’t know. I told my agent that I am still on contract. I will evaluate offers at season’s end and see what interests me.
Do you deserve to continue?
That’s for the president to decide. If he believes so, he will have to make me an offer and I will then decide.
A lot of names have been discussed recently. How do the players feel?
We had a pleasant workout yesterday with lots of jokes and laughs. The players are also people and any news about them can affect them. Some take it harder than others.
How would players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Villa fit into the team?
Real Madrid has always had world-class players. Every Real Madrid players knows he must live and work alongside other superstars, which is why they would be warmly received. Anyone that can contribute and help is welcome.
Post-match comments
Vicente Boluda congratulated FC Barcelona for winning the league title. Juande Ramos spoke to the media after the match at El Madrigal. Raul Gonzalez Blanco played his 700th game with Real Madrid tonight and shared his view on it with the media. Robben and Higuain were sad about the defeat and both pointed out much was at stake for Villarreal tonight.
Vicente Boluda:
Barcelona deserve to be champions. We would have liked to win it ourselves. We did so in the last couple of seasons, but we couldn’t do it this time.
Juande Ramos:
We have to congratulate Barcelona because they deserve to be champions. The league is the fairest of all competitions; Barcelona have been the champions of regularity.
The match was very tight. We tried hard to win from the start. The game was open and both teams looked for a victory. Villarreal needed to win to continue to have chances to make it to the Champions League next year, and we needed a victory because it is always our duty to win. Villarreal scored one more goal and should be congratulated for their victory.
These situations happen in football and they are hard to explain. The team performed well in the second leg until it lost its chances to win the title. It suffered from that.
We must always respect the championship because other teams are either fighting to avoid relegation or to play in Europe next year. We must always play a serious game.
Raul Gonzalez
There was much at stake for Villarreal and the team’s mentality was different. We fought hard and worked for a victory till the end. It’s a shame we didn’t win, but we have to accept it.
I am happy about having played 700 games with Real Madrid. It was something unimaginable when I started out, but I’ve managed it thanks to the confidence the Club and every coach have had in me. I guess my first game stands out more for me because without it the rest wouldn’t have happened.
Robben
This is a difficult stadium to play in, but I think we did well. We played like a true team, but we were unlucky. We wanted to improve on the image we gave out last week and I think we did. We had a bad day then and we had to overcome it. Villarreal played well. We tried to win, but we were unlucky.
The game was open and both teams had chances on goal. We could’ve won. We will naturally try to win our next two games. You can’t think about anything else when you wear this shirt.
Higuain
You could tell there was much at stake for Villarreal. We did all we could, but they started strong and were luckier in decisive moments. The first goal we conceded was a harsh blow, and every time we managed to grow stronger we received another. The important thing is that we showed we wanted to win. We have to congratulate the champions because they deserved to win.
Juande press conference
Juande Ramos said the team deserves more praise for the amazing numbers it’s earned in the past few weeks.
What’s your motivation now that the title is lost?
It isn’t true that the title is lost. We must try hard while there is still a mathemmatical chance for us to win. We have to use all our resources. By winning we will force Barcelona to take points. That’s what we want to do. We are professionals and we must try to win our games and play as well as we can. We have to leave personal matters aside. Real Madrid will pay us until 30 June, so we must be professional and do the best we can for this Club.
How does the squad feel?
They want to play a good game and they think that two games aren’t enough to cloud an excellent run in the second leg. We didn’t lose in 18 weeks, winning 17 games and drawing just one. Our image can’t be tarnished by two games, but truth be told, they weren’t good. We must end the season with the best possible image.
You are one step shy of sealing the best second leg in the team’s history. Your numbers are impressive…
We shouldn’t compare, but we’ve been two points ahead of Barcelona since we arrived. It’s true that their style is more beautiful, but we’ve taken more points and earned better results than them in the second leg. Real Madrid have had a great season; we would have won the title in any other edition of the championship, but Barcelona have played better than us.
A bad image against Villarreal will be more important than the good results you’ve had so far…
That’s natural. Everyone always remembers that last thing you do. We must play as well as we possibly can and show this team is capable of winning at any stadium. We must be professional and do our best.
The meeting you had on Monday seemed quite pointless.
I think it was a meeting in which the President, with whom I have a excellent relationship, wanted to give us his support but also show his concern about Real Madrid ending the season as it played in Valencia. He wanted to instill strength, confidence and calmness in us in order for us to do what we did before. It was a friendly meeting.
Do you think you’ve done well enough to stay?
I shouldn’t be the judge of that. My goal when I signed was to reach next season’s Champions League, and we did that early on. I am proud of the numbers we’ve earned and of achieving the goal so early on. Real Madrid were fifth and worried about not qualifying for the Champions League next year when we arrived. We were sixth after the match in Barcelona. I think in that respect the Club is happy with the job we’ve done.
Wining the league was never your goal?
The goal was to qualify, but winning a title would have naturally be welcomed. The league title was nine points away for us, and that distance became 12 points after the game in Barcelona.
Do you see yourself outside Real Madrid?
I’m not worried about it. We’re here to talk if the future President is interested. If he isn’t, I will congratulate him for his victory and wish him luck.
Do you think your chances diminished after the defeat against Barcelona?
I know the work I’ve done and what was expected of me, and we’ve done that by far. I am proud of that.
Have you talked about the presentation of Florentino Perez’s candidacy?
It took place while we were training yesterday, so I saw it in the afternoon news. It’s normal. We have to be somewhat aside from the social areas of the Club. We are keeping an eye on what’s going to happen, but the squad is aside from it on a sporting level.
Do you think your stint at Real Madrid has strengthened your reputation?
I am delighted with the run I’ve had so far at Real Madrid.
It would be a bad end indeed for Real Madrid to give away the title by losing against Villarreal. It would make Barcelona the champions before playing on Sunday.
On the contrary, we’ve forced Barcelona to work hard for the title. Real Madrid aren’t going to give away anything; if Barcelona win, it will be because they deserved it. We’ve prevented them from winning a long time ago. Real Madrid have been true competitors and fought with all their strength, doing more than anyone expected. We’ve forced Barcelona to win many games and do their best to win the title. Our conscience is fine because we know we’ve done everything we can. If they happen to win the title on Saturday we will congratulate them.
What do you think of Villarreal?
They are a good team that’s had magnificent seasons in recent years. They are working hard to reach next year’s Champions League. The game will be similar to last week’s clash in Valencia. They need tree points and they will play at their stadium. We want to win, but we will be second regardless of the outcome. Their need of points is greater than ours.
Ramos and Casillas have said you should stay on as coach.
They flatter me and it satisfies me to see they value the work we’ve done.
Has anyone from Florentino Perez’s entourage contacted you or your agent?
I don’t ask my agent about things like that. We’ll see the offers people make on 30 June. It seems that because of losing two games I am no longer fit to coach Real Madrid. I don’t want to be Real Madrid’s coach if it takes losing one game to determine if I should have the job or not.
What does the team need?
I have my own opinion and I will tell it to the professionals that take on the Club next season if they are interested in it. This is not the time to say.
You had a lot to do when you arrived. Do you think the fans would’ve had more fun with your team if you’d had more time to achieve your goals?
The situation the team was in when I arrived was uncomfortable, but I took on the job because I believed the team could do better, and it has. A good coach’s duty is to bring the best out of his squad. The team has played as I thought it had to given the squad it has. We played spectacular football against Sevilla. I haven’t forgotten how to play good football. You play one way or another depending on the characteristics of the squad. Comparisons with Barcelona have hurt us, but they are nirmal. Their style is prettier, but our results have been better. I also like beautiful football, but you need certain kinds of players to play like that.
Post-match comments
Juande Ramos recognized that Valencia were the deserving winners on Saturday night. Real Madrid Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic offered his impression of the defeat against Valencia. Despite losing to Valencia, the players won’t give up and will continue playing to win. Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Ramos and Gabi Heinze insist the team will continue doing whatever it takes to win their three remaining matches this season.
Juande Ramos:
The match began on level footing. We had twenty good minutes but couldn’t find the back of the net. We wanted to win but Valencia got luckier on goal. They dominated the match after the first goal and were the deserving winners. The score reflects the security with which they played. I think we could have scored in the first half.
We were a solid team up until the last two matches. We didn’t concede goals and we put together a good streak. There is no explanation for the number of goals we have conceded recently.
We will see what Barcelona do tomorrow, but I think winning the league has become very complicated.
Balance is the most important aspect for a team, and that is what I think we are missing. We don’t score more goals by having more forwards. We needed midfielders. We didn’t control the match, which is why I made the changes I made.
We are professionals and we must win all our remaining matches and work hard. That’s all that is left and it’s all we can do.
Pedja Mijatovic:
We knew it would be complicated. Last week’s defeat still hurts and Valencia were very motivated. It wasn’t because of our players’ attitude. They did what they could, but it was hard after losing to Barcelona and finishing second in the table. I always enjoy returning to Valencia because it is where I really became a player. I had three great years here. I am happy to return, but I am leaving sad.
Marcelo:
We need to win our remaining matches because we are still mathematically alive and we need to fight for our fans. We tried to win the match, but sometimes things don’t turn out like we want them to.
Valencia played well. Now we need to forget this match and focus on the rest. We need to win them.
Metzelder:
We knew Mestalla was a tough place to play, but Real Madrid can play on any pitch. We are going through a difficult patch and must do whatever it takes to defend the image of this club. We easily lost two matches and must cheer up to take on the matches we have left.
We worked hard over the last few months to catch Barcelona and after last week’s tough loss it is hard to move forward. It’s hard when we don’t have any chance to win the title.
We need to win our matches. Barcelona have had an amazing year and deserve to be champions. I don’t care if it’s tomorrow or next week. We had a few tough months this year, but we diplayed commitment and dedication. When all is said and done, we can only say we didn’t have a great year.
I want to continue playing here because it’s the best club in the world and players are proud to wear this shirt. It’s up to the club so we will see what happens this summer.
Higuain:
Nobody likes to lose, so we have to save face and finish off the season as best as possible. It quickly became an uphill battle and we couldn’t stage a comeback. We need to move on.
Heinze:
It’s a shame for our fans because we play for a club that is used to winning. We are professionals and will fight for this shirt until the very end.
We knew we had to play Valencia, but each goal hurt did more damage. We thought we could win, but that wasn’t the case. We are finding it hard to keep our chins up, but we need to finish the season in the best way possible.
Sergio Ramos:
It was a tough blow. We must be professionals and keep chugging along. We knew what Valencia would bring to the table They are a great team and very talented.
We must focus on recovering and moving on. We will fight until the end for this shirt.
Juande press conference
Juande Ramos said his men will give their all to win the four games that remain in La Liga this season.
How does the team feel?
The team has trained with the same excitement as always these past few days, preparing for our next match, which will be beautiful and interesting because Valencia are fighting to qualify for the Champions League. Every clash between Real Madrid and Valencia is interesting.
Can a player forget about such a defeat so soon?
I think the great atmosphere at a stadium like Mestalla generates anxiety and a drive to perform in a player. Every professional wants to showcase his quality. The match will be thrilling, considering we’ve earned incredible results in the past few weeks. No-one can catch up to us on the table and we must try to reduce Barcelona’s cushion.
There’s talk of getting rid of all the Dutch players. Does the squad talk about this?
An election will soon take place and we still don’t know who the President will be. These are just rumours because there is no-one at the helm to decide what’s going to happen.
Have you accepted the fact that your recent defeat has shrunk your chances of coaching the team next season?
I have accepted nothing. I signed a six-month contract and we’ll see what happens when that date arrives. Winning a title or failing to do so will not determine a contract extension. We’ll talk on 30 June.
Some say you learned a tactical lesson by losing to Liverpool and Barcelona. Was that what made you lose, or was it a lack of better players?
I think Real Madrid are currently one step behind the greatest teams in Europe. The team has been eliminated too soon from the Champions League in recent years. We lack something when we face teams like these at their full potential.
The team pulled rank after the Liverpool incident. Do you think the same will happen now?
You can’t compare games because they are all different from each other. Everything was possible back then because the league was far from over. There are less games left now, which makes things harder. I have no doubt of my men’s professional character and I’m sure they will try their best to stand for the Real Madrid crest. I’m convinced the match on Saturday will be hard-fought.
Does it bother you to see Barcelona have already celebrated winning the title?
I don’t think they have. They celebrated their victory. It’s natural for any club to be happy after such a victory. I’m sure Manchester United also celebrated winning their match.
Do you still think about winning the title?
We will fight to win our games in order to force Barcelona to win theirs. We will fight as hard as ever while there is still a mathematical chance for us to take the title.
What do you think of the rumour that says Raul may leave for England?
I think he should answer that.
Post-match comments
Real Madrid Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic assessed his team’s defeat at the hands of Barcelona. With little to say, Juande Ramos gave his impression of the Clasico. Raul was one of the most visibly upset players following Real Madrid’s defeat in the Clasico. Iker Casillas and Gabriel Heinze spoke to the press following the bitter Clasico defeat.
Pedja Mijatovic
We need a miracle to get back into the chase. After what we saw tonight, Barcelona are a great team. We got the job done in the first fifteen minutes by scoring, but then we fell apart. Our defensive mistakes cost us dearly and they were definitely the better side.
We made three or four mistakes in particular that we paid the price for. That’s how they scored the first two goals. Puyol was all alone, and once Barcelona take the lead they know how to manage the game. We responded a little with our second goal, but they immediately scored the fourth and put it out of reach.
This team deserves credit for making it here and for giving the record-setting Barcelona a run for their money. Anything can happen in football, but like I said, they were the better team. We value the effort put forth by our team and we are second with a 21-point lead over the third place team. Barcelona are unstoppable, so congratulations to them.
We need to play the games we have left. Thet may let some points slip by because they have important matches ahead, but we need to continue winning and finish off the season with four victories.
The fans behave as always. They are here from the first minute to the last. Madridistas always stand by their team.
Hats off to Barcelona for the three points and because they were the better team. We tried our best, but it wasn’t possible. We wanted to score early, but they responded quickly and they are a terrible team to be up against when they have the ball. It’s very hard to stop them.
They control their own destiny. The league is in their hands, but we will try to finish in the best manner possible. It’s a painful defeat for us and our fans, but this is football and there’s nothing more to be said.
We felt powerless. It hurts a lot to lose like this. We fought until the very end, but we were up against a better team. Losing like this at home make you feel helpless.
Barcelona have the title in their pocket and two more that come down to one or two matches. There’s a reason they are where they are after ten months.
We are going to rest and finish the season as best we can. There are four matches left and we must win then. Then we will see. Members will decide what happens during the elections.
Juande Ramos
It’s not pleasant. We lost a lot of the hope we had of winning La Liga, but Barcelona were the better team. They played better than us and were the deserving winners.We got our hopes up after taking the lead, but they scored two goals soon thereafter and the team didn’t have time to reorganize. Barcelona control the match well with the lead. We suffered a lot and phyically exerted ourselves to try to get back into it, but it wasn’t to be. Barça have a lot of talent and speed.
In our first match we didn’t play in suched an advanced position and everyone criticized us by saying we played as a small team when were about to obtain a positive result. We came out with the need to win. We had no other choice and we did well for 20 minutes, but Barcelona are lethal when given such space. You have to play either aggressively or defensively against Barcelona, and unfortunately it didn’t work out for us..
Barcelona are one step above the rest. They proved they are superior, but perhaps their first goals were a result of mistakes we didn’t expect. We were a little off-balance, but we had to try every which way to win. You can’t gift wrap anything for Barcelona because they will kill you. Barcelona have a team capable of winning in any stadium.
I always evaluate teams as a whole. Wins and losses must be spread proportionally. Real Madrid was responsible for the great string of results, not a coach or a player. Whether good or bad, the whole organization is responsible.
Europe’s big clubs got the better of us and as much as it hurts, we have to admit it.
I always try to think about the next match whether we have won or lost. We will feel the effects today and tomorrow and the players are upset. They will begin preparing for the next match on Tuesday. We will continue fighting as long as we are mathematically still alive, although now it is much more complicated. Real Madrid never give up for dead.
Casillas
Losing the way we did is very painful, but what may hurt more isl losing 0-1 in the last minute. Barcelona are a great team and little more can be said. Congratulations to them.
Despite getting off to a good start, Barcelona dominated the match. I am saddened because we have working very hard.
I think Barça was sensational. They are a great team and nothing can be done against them. There are still twelve points in play, so let’s see what happens.
Madridista fans can demand a lot from their players when up against a team like Barcelona in the Bernabeu, but little more. We couldn’t stop the never-ending movement by Xavi and Iniesta.
Heinze
They played a great match and were able to overcome our pressure, which wears out the opponent. After we pulled closer they scored the fourth goal.
It’s a painful defeat because we see everything we have worked hard for slip away. We have fought hard all year to accomplish our goal.
The team is upset because we like to do our job well and we have feelings. We are sad that we upset our fans.
Juande Ramos press conference
Juande Ramos gave a press conference the day before the crucial clash with Barcelona.
You placed your bet on Barcelona in the first leg. Who do you bet on now?
That’s not true. I said that if people wished to become millionaires they should bet on Real Madrid. I’m not going to place any bets this time.
Now that Barcelona have faced Valencia and Chelsea, do you think the formula to play against them has been revealed?
Every team is different. We all have to try to improve without our defects showing. I think you can use many different formulas to do things well.
Is this the most important game of the season?
It is because it’s our next game. Last week it was the match in Sevilla because losing would have probably meant we’d have no chances of winning the title. If we fail to win tomorrow, Barcelona will distance themselves from us. The match against Valencia will be the most important game next week, because it is the one that follows.
Faubert doesn’t play. Are the Club’s doors shut to him?
Robben plays in his position and he is performing magnificently well. Faubert arrived to help the team if it lacked something. He hasn’t had many chances because the team is doing a good job. No-one here has the doors shut to him.
Would it be a huge prowess to win the title?
The only reason why Real Madrid aren’t leaders after such an impressive run is because another team is also performing well. Both are quality sides and neither will give up the fight. I hope we can get closer to Barcelona.
Which is Barcelona’s weak spot?
Barcelona are doing a fantastic job. They have few weaknesses. We will try to prevent them from having a good day because we have a chance to be just one point behind them.
Will Robben be a starter?
He’s trained in the last couple of days, but we will have to decide if we need him from the start; playing him early on could be risky.
Have you got an anti-Messi plan?
I have an anti-Barcelona plan. Do you think Xavi, Iniesta, Alves and Eto’o don’t pose a threat? Focusing on Messi does not give us any sort of guarantee. We will have to work hard as a team to stop Barcelona as a whole.
Do you think you are proving to be a great coach?
I coach for my team, not to prove anything. I’m only worried about working with my team and do so the best way I can in order to catch up to Barcelona. My individual role is of no importance; Real Madrid is above all that.
Could Barcelona still feel tired from their match against Chelsea?
They are playing in three competitions and that usually gets teams more tired, but it doesn’t guarantee anything. It could be a reason for them to be even more excited about the match, which wouldn’t be good for us.
Is Guti’s absence very important?
It is always bad whenever a player is injured. Guti played very well in our last few games and his absence is important, but other men on the team can do equally well.
People say the match will be a clash between Barcelona’s beautiful football and Madrid’s different style.
Both teams are different. Each has its own style and capitalises on it. Barcelona’s brilliant football earns them good results. Our style is different, but we also earn good results. Despite what everybody says, Real Madrid have played very good games. Goals don’t just happen. We are doing a good job. We’ve played good, not so good and a couple of bad games.
Would it be fair for Real Madrid to win La Liga?
There’s no doubt about it. The most regular side wins the league, which is the fairest championship there is.
Will few goals be scored in the match?
The final result is what counts. We will have greater chances to win the better we play, but no-one believes showcasing a brilliant style is more important than a good result. The game will be even if neither team risks playing for it.
Have you a surprise hidden up your sleve?
It is hard to surprise when it comes to Real Madrid and Barcelona. People know what variations on both teams may be like.
Will it predominantly be a game of players or coaches?
We all have our role to play. They play and I coach.
Would it surprise you if Messi or eto’o didn’t play in order to be fit for Chelsea?
I would have to know how fit they are. I would use my best men for the match if they are all ready. I wouldn’t if I had doubts because I’d rather they played in Chelsea. Barcelona will still be leaders if they lose at the Bernabeu, but they risk elimination in London.
Are you worried about the goal average?
We will try to do our best in 90 minutes. I don’t know how many goals we’ll score. We just want to win. The more we score the better, but victory is what really counts.
Post-match comments
Juande Ramos was extremely satisfied with his team’s victory over Sevilla, which allows them to be just four points behind Barcelona on the league table. Marcelo scored a goal and Torres gave a solid performance. Both men were very happy with the victory in Seville. Christoph Metzelder returned to a starting lineup against Sevilla and couldn’t have done better; he played brilliantly and even served an assist. Raul will never admit it, but he was the star in Real Madrid’s 4-2 victory over Sevilla thanks to his impressive hat trick. The captain was especially proud of the team tonight.
JUANDE RAMOS
Games last for 90 minutes. Sevilla dominated the first 20 or 25 minutes. They had a strong start and we failed to keep possession, but we dominated the second part of the first half. I think the key to our victory was scoring the equaliser just before half-time. We had complete control over the second half. The situation we were in only allowed room for a victory. We are satisfied and must now wait for next week’s game to come.
Sevilla dominated at first, but we were superior from then on and deserved the victory. Our superiority made us win. We all knew we had to try even more to win the match.
I just focus on my team and on what we can improve on. I don’t look at the weaknesses of an opponent. We managed to change things in the second half and I’m satisfied with that.
It feels nice. We’ve been winning for weeks. This is our seventeenth victory. Despite our hard work, we seemed to fail to cut distances short until now. It is hard not to see your efforts pay off. There are five games left and many more points are at stake. A very important part of the league will be at stake in our home match against Barcelona.
MARCELO
My goal was nice, but what’s important is that we took three points. There are many games left in the season and we have to fight hard to win the title. We won’t achieve anything if we don’t fight.
It was a tough game, just like we expected. We managed to score and we won. We must continue to play like this in order to win the title. I think the team is united, and that’s important. The match against Barcelona will be very tough; no game is easy.
TORRES
The team worked well. It was a complicated game, but we were brave. I believe I can do better, but I am very grateful for the minutes the coach is giving me. I try to use them as best as I can.
Today we saw the best Raul there is. He is a unique player and proved so in a very important game.
METZELDER
We knew this was a difficult venue in which we lost last season. The team was in a difficult situation, but I think we proved to fight like animals to the end in order to win. We are very happy and we are well in the chase of Barcelona. This is crazy, but the streak we’ve been having in the past few weeks can help us catch up to them. We will play an amazing game next week.
The match against Barcelona will be amazing and the entire world will be watching. Winning is all that counts and that’s what we’ll try to do at the Bernabeu. It will be hard work and we will have to concentrate and position ourselves well. We’ll have to do the same against Valencia and Villarreal. The defence will take centre stage, but we have to win and we will.
Our style isn’t the best there is, but we fight, run… We know we are a quality team and that we can play better, but victory is all that counts in these games and we try everything we can to achieve this. These aren’t normal league games; they are finals in which we have to give our all. We would like to play better, but winning is all that counts for now, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. We are having a good run.
We defended rather well and I even managed to serve an assist. My job is to defend and help the team out, but centre backs can sometimes serve assist. I received the ball and, luckily, a goal came from my pass. I am very happy with this game. I had to help the team and I did.
RAUL
Sevilla scored the opening goal, but the match was even in the second part of the first half and we scored before half-time. The strike made us confident. We had faith in ourselves and dominated throughout the second half with goals and several chances. We can’t stop now; we must continue to work hard. We are happy because we achieved our goal and we hope to take three points on Saturday.
We knew Sevilla would complicated things for us, but games last 90 minutes and we knew we would have more possession as the match unfolded. That’s what happened. The team did brilliantly.
We used our chance to reduce the distance on the table, but Barcelona have the league in their hands. Complicated games follow, such as the one against them next weekend, and we’ll have to keep winning in order to see how far we can get. The match will be complicated, but I hope the atmosphere at the Bernabeu and the streak we are having help us win.
I’m proud of the squad and the technical staff for pulling off this run, which is a testament to the greatness and history of this crest. I’m honoured to wear this shirt, especially today. The team’s victories are all that count. I am naturally happy about my hat trick, but it’s simply been the finishing touch to a great collective effort.
Juande press conference
Juande Ramos said every game is important and that points become more crucial with each passing week.
What do you think of Pepe’s suspension?
I think they may have exaggerated a bit, but I respect any decision made by a committee. I totally accept it, but we’ll see if the Club decides to apeal or let it go.
Do you still excuse his behaviour?
I think I was misinterpreted. I still think he lost his mind and that he didn’t know what he was doing when he made those kicks. I don’t think he wanted to hurt the player; I simply think he lost his mind and started to kick around. That’s what I meant to say.
How do you expect your return to Seville to be like? There’s talk of a wild atmosphere, of money notes with your face on them…
It will be an important match for both clubs. We have different goals, but the three points are very valuable to both teams. We will have to centre our efforts on winning the game. I think the notes with my face are just an example of the fun people in Sevilla like to have. I think it’s great because I won’t need to buy any notes to play Monopoly (laughs).
This could be a crucial week, but there’s been little talk of football.
It’s true that the game hasn’t been talked about much. There’s also been a match-day in mid-week and those games have centered all the attention. We must concentrate on the match in Seville because it is very important. There are fewer games left and points gain more importance every week. One defeat from us and a victory from Barcelona would practically decide the outcome of the season. The same applies to Sevilla because they want to make the Champions League next year.
Do you like needing bodyguards for the match in Seville?
I love traveling to Seville. Real Madrid always travels with security because it is a great Club. It needs more security when it travels to cities with larger populations, like Barcelona, Pamplona, Bilbao, Valencia, Seville… It isn’t just applied to me.
Getafe’s President said that behavior like that displayed by Marcelo and Pepe the other day generates a greater dislike for Real Madrid at other stadiums.
I’m not going to comment on what he said. The only thing I’d like to say is that there is a special ‘language’ players speak on the pitch. The expression ‘what happens on a pitch, stays on a pitch’ is true. There are many things we don’t know about. I believe that in order for a player to behave like that something must have happened beforehand. Those of us who were players in the past know this.
What Pepe did on the pitch is a criminal action on the streets…
Do you really think someone on the street feels the same as a player who is performing before 100,000 people and is risking losing the league title? Nevertheless, I don’t think what he did can be justified. He lost his nerves and went crazy.
What worries you more about Pepe’s absence?
Nothing really. Every player has his own characteristics. I’m sure whomever takes his place will be worse than him at some things and better at others. People talk much about the absences on the team, but that’s what worries me the least. Real Madrid has over 20 players in order to pull through this sort of situation. If we fail to do so it will because we simply couldn’t pull it off; it won’t have anything to do with being better or worse.
Have you spoken to Marcelo about his behavior?
We should handle these situations with care, but things that happen during a game are always preceded by something else.
How does Pepe feel about the suspension?
He is beginning to get used to the idea because he knew the punishment was going to be severe. He knows he has to pay for what he did. He is a good lad.
Would it be convenient to leave Marcelo off the squad list as a lesson for what he did?
Real Madrid isn’t going to drop players for whatever reason. We aren’t going to give a perfectly fit player a holiday in Madrid for the weekend.
How do Huntelaar and Cannavaro feel?
They trained with the rest. They naturally still feel a bit niggled, but there are 24 hours left for the game, during which we will decide what to do with them.
Juande to Realmadrid.com
On Sunday, Juande Ramos will return to a stadium in which he was very successful: the Sanchez Pizjuan. The coach remembers his years at Sevilla in this exclusive interview.
Seville is a special city for you. What memories do you have of it?
I have unforgettable memories. I spent the best years of my coaching career in Seville. That’s where I won more titles. Returning to the city and to the Sanchez Pizjuan will bring back fond memories.
This is a record-breaking Real Madrid side. You will surpass Miguel Muñoz’s historic side by earning an 8th consecutive victory in Seville.
We’ve been lucky to break records thanks to our hard work. It’s curious that we could break a new one at a stadium in which I’ve been very successful.
Every title you won at Sevilla is important, but the two UEFA Cups probably stand out because they gave the club an international presence. Which is your favourite?
It’s hard to choose. Sevilla had never won a European title before. They had King’s Cups and a league title, but no European accolades. The UEFA Cup we won in Eindhoven meant a lot to the team, the city and the club. Sevilla had a reputation of failing in important games, but that victory killed all those fears and anxieties. It was beautiful to win that title, but the best part was the reception people gave us in Seville; it was indescribable.
It marked the beginning of a new era at the club…
It did, especially because most of us on the team had never won a title before. We were humble sportsmen that originally came from humble teams without chances of winning trophies. That Sevilla will always be remembered thanks to our hard work and drive. They gave us a spectacular reception in the City Hall. It left its mark on me. We then went on to win many more trophies, but I think my favourite was the first UEFA Cup.
Sevilla’s fans are strong and fun. How is it to hear them from the bench?
The support of fans in Seville is extremely important, so much so, that the Spanish national team didn’t lose when it played in Seville for years. Both Sevilla’s and Betis’ fans identify with their teams and carry them to success. I will never forget the semifinal against Shalke 04. The fans gave us an extra push that is found in very few other stadiums.
It will also be Sergio Ramos’ return to Seville. He always mentions Antonio Puerta when he wins a title. What do you think of when you see him do things like that?
He is a Sevilla supporter and a professional that does his best at Real Madrid and on the Spanish national team. He was born and raised in Seville and proves his Sevillismo whenever he has a chance. Antonio Puerta is on his shirt during every important moment. This says a lot about Sergio Ramos and shows his most human and humble side.
You won two of your titles with Sevilla at the Bernabeu…
Some things in life are hard to explain. We won the King’s Cup and the Spanish Super Cup here. I now sit on Real Madrid’s bench. I still haven’t won anything at my new club, but I won two of my titles with Sevilla here… It’s quite striking…
Is there a place you are especially fond of in Seville?
I can’t possibly pick one. Doing so would imply forgetting about many others. Every place in Seville is lovely. I love its people, the friends I left there, and the way they celebrate Easter.
Post-match comments
Pedja Mijatovic was very satisfied with the team’s victory over Getafe. Juande Ramos was very happy with his team’s epic victory against Getafe at the Bernabeu. Shocked and sorry for what he did, Pepe asked to be forgiven for the action that got him sent off. Gonzalo Higuain scored two goals against Getafe and Fernando Gago was the team’s leader in midfield. Both men were proud of the team’s victory.
Mijatovic:
I like this sort of game, but I would like to win earlier on because I’m afraid we will have a heart attack sooner or later. The result is what’s important. Winning was all that mattered today and it isn’t easy to play with such pressure. Our boys are hanging on.
This game reminded me of those from three season’s ago, but what’s important is that we are just three points behind Barcelona, at least for the night. We’ll have to see what they do. We are still alive.
There will be many absences on the team against Sevilla and that’s a real shame. Robben, Sneijder and Heinze are injured, and Higuain and Pepe are suspended. The squad knows just how important our next game is and every player will do his best to keep this up until the end of the campaign.
Gonzalo Higuain has been having a great season all year. He scores goals and participates in every attack. He also serves assists. He’s bloomed this season and I hope he keeps it up until it ends. He is a very young quality player, and I’m sure he’ll pull it off.
The pressure is Barcelona’s now. Sevilla are an uncomfortable opponent that is fighting to stay in the Champions league qualifying positions. Anything can happen. We hope to defeat Sevilla and stay in the fight for the title.
Juande Ramos:
Real Madrid is an institution used to this type of comeback, and this team always fights to the end. Several unexpected things happened, but the team had faith and managed to turn the score around. We will fight with all our strength while there is still a mathematical chance to win the title.
I don’t want to comment on Casquero’s penalty, but I believe taking it like that was disrespectful given how things were turning out. I nevertheless decline to comment.
I think we were forced to make an epic comeback by our weak performance in the first half. Higuain told me we should have been given a penalty when the score was 1-1. I think none of the things that followed would have happened if we had been given that penalty.
I’m sure Pepe feels sorry for what he did. I think he was thinking about the chance we had just lost and failed to control his temper. I apologise for my men’s actions when there is such tension and the title is at stake.
Robben made the squad list because he was fit to play, but having played so many consecutive games was deemed to possibly be bad for him. We had decided to save his strength, but he had to come on. Javi Garcia came on because Gago positioned himself as a defender in order to create ball movement from the back.
We are going to appeal Higuain’s yellow card because he clearly should have been awarded a penalty. On the other hand, I think Pepe lost his temper but didn’t intend to hurt anyone.
Throughout a season you sometimes win thanks to luck. I think we were lucky Getafe missed their penalty and we scored a third goal.
The entire team works on scoring a goal. It is impossible for a striker to score without the work of those behind him, but we are nevertheless delighted with the great progress Higuain is making.
Pepe:
I feel terrible; never in my career had this happened to me. I can only ask for the fans’ forgiveness because my actions weren’t good.
Many people know I’m not like this, but I was very tense. I ask all the players, their families, referees and all football fans to forgive me. I now have to wait and see what happens.
The play started in a penalty Higuain should have been awarded. Getafe began a counterattack. I touched a player and forced a penalty. Everybody saw what followed. I can only say I’m sorry.
It was a terrible thing to do, but I was very tense. I’m human and must fail sometimes. The important thing is that I know what I did is wrong and that’s why I ask everyone to forgive me.
Nothing like this has ever happened to me. I am a happy person who enjoys life. I always try to see the bright side of things. I don’t know what happened. I was so much into the championship that I did something completely alien to me.
The only thing I’m certain of is that I’ve played many games for Real Madrid. All people have to do to realise I’m not really like this is look back at them. I know I must be punished. It is paramount to set an example, but my CV shows I never do stuff like this.
Higuain:
This is the beauty of football: we were losing in the 40th minute and managed to score after they missed a shot. The beauty of football is that things change all the time. Our spirits would be very different if we had lost. We must enjoy ourselves and congratulate the whole team. The league is far from over.
I shot and scored. That’s the beauty of this sport. The important thing is that the strike gave us chances to win the title. I shot confidentlly with my left foot and I was lucky it went in. I’m happy about it, but there are 24 players on this team and we all work equally hard. We won thanks to everyone’s efforts.
This game could be compared to those of two season’s back. We are three points behind the leaders and we’ll have to see what they do tomorrow. We must be calm and rest to prepare for our next game, which will be tough.
I can only thank the fans. This victory is for them and for those who always support us.
We could have lost the league tonight, but we luckily won the game and we’re still in the fight for the title. We are happy, but there are many games left in the season.
Gago:
These games are beautiful when they end in a victory because the adrenaline they generate is incredible. We started losing and we knew a draw wasn’t good enough. We eventually took three very important points by leaving style aside; these games must be won.
Higuain scored an amazing goal. He is having a great run and he is a brilliant player.
I like this sort of game because it can’t really be analysed. We won, that’s it. We didn’t play well in the first half. Our game was imprecise, but we eventually won. Arjen’s injury hurt us, but we pulled rank.
What Pepe did happened during a heated moment in the clash. No one should react that way, but we must move forward and think about the tough games that will follow.
I’m not worried and I’m also anxious to play in Seville. Barcelona are playing very well and their cushion over us is considerable, but our job is to win every game. We have the advanntage because we still have to face them at home. Every match is a final from now on.
Juande Ramos press conference
Juande Ramos sounded confident about the upcoming match against Getafe as he offered Monday’s press conference.
How is the team physically-speaking?
It’s fine other than those players who are injured. I think we’re good to go for tomorrow’s match.
Might this be a week in which teams slip up?
Every match but ours is on Wednesday and we’re all in the same boat. The three points in play against Getafe are worth the same as those against Barcelona. We must win, win, win.
Will you rest Robben and/or start Guti?
Robben has had a problem or two when he plays back-to-back matches. Guti has a good chance since we are short in that position.
In this game of cat and mouse, who is feeling more wear and tear, the hunter or the hunted?
I think the hunter because Barcelona are two games ahead of us. They have room to slip up.
In Barcelona there is talk of winning the league in the Bernabeu. Might the rumors be a way of messing with Real Madrid’s head?
We’re doing what we need to do and no one can make us lose focus. Hopefully we don’t lose for a long time, but nothing being said will derail us.
Do you really think Sevilla will be the one to knock off Barcelona?
I’d rather focus on our matches because everything else is out of our control. Every team has its goals and I want to focus on the Getafe match.
Has Faubert apologized for missing training?
The kid made a little mistake and that’s it. He thought they had the day off as usual. It was just a mistake. He knows the rules and will follow them.
Do you think Robben is too much of an individualist sometimes?
All players make decisions at certain times. Sometimes they don’t pan out, sometimes they do. His play against Villarreal resulted in a goal and three points. All players make mistakes and the right call.
How would you describe the job Lass is doing?
We have more than twenty players here and cannot gripe about it. They are all important, but those who haven’t seen much action are able to show their stuff. Winning is our only option. We cannot make excuses and win or lose with Lass.
Do you prefer Marcelo along the wing or in a more central position?
He does well along the wing. He is improving a lot.
Juande’s Real Madrid equals the 1960/61 squad’s record
Real Madrid’s victory against Recreativo Huelva is their seventh straight win away from home, besides being their 15th victory in the last 16 games. Real Madrid had only achieved the former feat back in the 1960/61 season.
The Whites have defeated Mallorca, Numancia, Sporting Gijon, Espanyol, Athletic Bilbao, Malaga and Recreativo Huelva in their last seven games away from the Bernabeu. This impressive streak could increase against Sevilla, Valencia, Villarreal and Osasuna.
The Madridistas have taken 45 of a total 48 points in the last 16 games, scoring 37 strikes and conceding only five. They will break the 1961 record by defeating Sevilla at the Sanchez Pizjuan on Sunday.
Post-match comments
Juande Ramos was very pleased with his teamm’s game and with the final result. Both Marcelo and Pepe were very happy with the team’s latest victory.
Juande Ramos:
We had several chances to seal the game, but Recreativo’s goalkeeper deserves credit for saving several shots. He had a great game
I think the team played well and dominated throughout. We maybe lacked more precision in attack, but Recreativo played a decent game and came close to getting a positive result. The superiority of our players tipped the scales in our favour.
Marcelo:
We continue to do our job and we just have to wait to see what Barcelona do each week. I think Sevilla may be able to help us in the next matchday. It’s important to score, but it is even more important to win; it doesn’t matter who scores.
I don’t care in which position I play, but t he coach knows I am a left back.
Pepe:
This important victory allows us to continue to fight for the title. People should know we are not going to give up. The team is united and we are going to fight for the league. We are happy with how our games are turning out and we must keep up the good work. We are working well in training, which allows for things to turn out well in our games.
I don’t believe I am the team’s most prominent player; this team has many prominent palyers. I just wish to do things well and enjoy the many years I will spend at Real Madrid. I now have the chance to play regularly and to do things well.
Juande Ramos press conference
Juande Ramos discussed the importance of winning in Huelva on Saturday during Friday’s press conference.
Who needs the points more, Recreativo or Real Madrid?
We are both in tight situations and need the points. It’s an important match for both clubs, which makes it all the more interesting.
Is it a good week to cut into Barcelona’s lead?
Every week is the same. We are putting on as much pressure as we can and cannot afford to slip up. Barcelona will always have the two-match margin, so we cannot let any points slip through our fingers. Any team in Primera can give Barcelona a tough time if they play well. We must be focused if we are to win.
Is it better or worse for players to know how Barcelona fared before they take the turf?
We have known how Barcelona did in our last two matches. The team responded both times with victories. They also find out. Someone always informs them. Both Barcelona and us know we are strong and that the other team will try to capitalize on any mistakes.
Can the fact that players were saying that seeing Barcelona always win is distressing affect the team?
I don’t think so. I am convinced that won’t happen. We know there are enough matches left to reduce the lead. We must beat Barça here and hope they lose another match. We need to play thinking that we cannot slip up.
Will Real Madrid be the champion of they win the next eight matches?
I haven’t thought about it. Thinking one match at a time has served us well. Long-term goals can go up in smoke. We must only think about the next three points. We must win in Huelva and see what Barcelona do.
How is Sneijder?
He had some problems early on, but I think he is fit despite not training on a regular basis.
Will you try to rally the troops in any special way before your matches against Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona…?
Those matches will come when they come. Now it’s time for Recreativo, and those points are equally as important. To think about future matches would be a mistake. Our chances will take a heavy blow if we lose and Barcelona win.
Barcelona say they see the treble within grasp.
I only pay attention to my team and Madrid. I try to ensure that everything works properly. I can’t make any assessment because I don’t see anything else.
What are your thoughts on Guardiola?
There’s little to say about him as a player. He was among the elite with Barcelona and the Spanish national team. He was an icon of Spanish football. He’s doing a spectacular job in his first season as a coach. He’s doing a great job and having a great season.
Will you reserve some players with Tuesday in mind?
We have two important and intense matches in three days. We have the option of making some changes and resting some players after the Recreativo match. We’ll assess the situation and go from there.
Post-match comments
Real Madrid Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic congratulated the squad for their recent results and commented on the goals by Raul and Robben. Juande Ramos discussed his satisfaction with his team’s victory against Valladolid, but the Madridista coach also recognized that there must be improvement over the last eight matches. Arjen Robben was a happy camper after Real Madrid took care of business against Valladolid. Gonzalo Higuain and Pepe stressed the importance of the win after puting in spendid performances against Valladolid.
Mijatovic:
Winning was important after Barcelona had won. We needed to win to maintain the difference and to continue fighting for the league. We must continue winning and hope that Barcelona leave some points by the wayside. We’ve won 14 of the last 15 and must now begin thinking about the next match. Valladolid came to town to play well in the Santiago Bernabeu because it’s a great place to showcase your stuff. It took us a while, but a goal in the 44th minutes gave us the strenght needed for the second half. I am happy for Raul because he scored an important goal after several weeks of not finding the back of the net. Robben’s goal was the product of a great pass by Guti, and he kept his cool and scored and important goal.
Juande Ramos:
Taking the three points was vital after Barcelona won. We must maintain this form and continue to improve. We were up against a good team that last week showed just how well it can play. It wasn’t an easy match and there is a lot of pressure. We are obligated to win, which is psychologically exhausting. But the team is doing a great job dealing with it.
I try to design the most-balanced lineups possible in line with what is best for the team. We play the best we can and get the most out of the players we have. We are forcing Barcelona to win every week and to recognize that we are there in case they slip up.
Every player has his traits. Guti is a great player; one of the best in the world. But he has his virtues and defects like all the rest. Everyone who is playing is playing well, so it’s best not to make many changes. He was injured for a long period of time, which makes it harder to find a way back into the lineup.
Sneijder had received a knock and dealt with it as long as he could, but then he asked to be replaced. Cannavaro’s substitution was more for technical purposes. He had a yellow card and I didn’t want to risk playing a man down in the closing minutes.
The debate about the game is uncalled for. It’s easier to win when playing well than when playing poorly. The team wasn’t brilliant today, but we did win. No one says you have to win badly to take the points. We’ve had good and bad days, but our results have been good generally speaking. There are differences if comparing our game with that of Barcelona, but right now they are only capable of playing the way they do.
Robben:
It was a difficult match. We suffered quite a bit, but managed to keep the three points here. We can only win the rest of our matches and wait for Barcelona to slip up. Valladolid were a pesky team. We were a lot more calm after the second goal. Valladolid played very well. They were well-positioned and have a lot of good players. We struggled because we didn’t have the ball as much as we would have liked, but after scoring we stepped up the pressure and played better. You always know that a team has to touch the ball more and open up the field when it is losing, which is why there is more open space in defense. We scored a good goal but I think we could have scored more had we played better. I am happy with the goal because it was important for the team. I want to be important to this team. We have a week to prepare for Recre. We can train with peace of mind and work hard to bring a victory home from Huelva.
Winning is important, especially at home. Valladolid aren’t an easy team to beat, but we eventually managed to take the three points. It was especially important being that Barcelona won yesterday, but we responded well and are still on track. Goitom is a very strong, talented striker. He can cause a lot of problems, especially from set pieces. The team performed well on defense and was able to stop him. We have improved a great deal. The coach can count on any player because we are all answering the call.
Higuain:
I am happy because we won and were able to maintain the pressure on Barecelona. We know we cannot mess up, and that is why the team fought so hard. This victory serves us well. It may not have been a great match to watch, but we continue winning. We cannot have any setbacks. Luckily my goal in Malaga helped open up the match. I am happy to be of help to the team.
Juande Ramos press conference
Shortly after the last workout of the week, Juande Ramos analyzed the condition of the team heading into its match against Valladolid.
How are the recoveries of those injured coming along?
Marcelo will not play and everyone else is fit. Codina, Parejo and Marcelo are off the squad list for medical reasons.
Guti ought to be thanked for clarifying all the recent speculation.
I don’t have a problem with Guti. There has been a lot of spin on recent news, but as he said, we have a cordial relationship.
May Lass play as a right-back with Sergio Ramos out this weekend?
I still haven’t decided. I remember the job he did against Simao when we played against Atletico. I’ll have to take a look at the situation because each opponent is different.
There had been good vibes all week in relation to Barcelona until Pique came along and said what he said.
It has happened before but I pay no attention. I am responsible only for what I say, not the opinions of others. Freedom of expression is allowed.
Are you worried by the fact the Raul hasn’t scored in recent matches?
I look at the team as a whole and am very pleased with what I see. We have been playing well. I want the team to work just as it has been.
Is it frustrating to see your streak marred by the fact that Barcelona play so well?
No. Real Madrid’s streak has taken a back seat because Barcelona are doing so well. We must force Bacelona to win all their matches. We are two different teams with very different characteristics.
Do Barcelona have any defects or are they a perfect team?
There is no perfect team and Barcelona certainly isn’t one. They are very good in many areas, but they have defects like every team does. They are on the right track to win titles.
Your contract stipulates that you will continue as head coach if you win La Liga, but this week your name came up regardless of whether you win or not. How does that make you feel?
There will be elections soon and rumors will be constant, so we must get used to them. We must continue working hard to be able to make a proper assessment at season’s end and when there is a new president.
The players must also be restless…
They are professionals and are used to rumors. I don’t think it will affect their work.
Just another Madridista
Hala Madrid 
Pepe’s injury has made things interesting
Pepe is out for the rest of the season. This probably might be the hundredth time you are hearing this week alone but still it is something that we might have to hear every week but in different ways. So you better get used to it. And since it is the first week after the horrific injury everyone has been speaking a lot about the lanky center back and the psosible replacements. And this I feel has made things interesting. There will be some transfer window action featuring Real Madrid and it won’t be all about selling.
“Real Madrid will feel Pepe’s absence,” warned former Real Madrid coach Juande Ramos in an interview on Canal+ La Liga. The former Real Madrid coach spoke a lot in favor about Pepe and how important and critical the defender was to his Real Madrid side back when he was the manager. He said:
Which I think is so true. Pepe’s absence will be felt. No doubt about it. But that will only be until we find the apt replacement whether within the club or from the window. Juande Ramos though did not get into the issue of whether Real should sign players in the winter transfer window to cover for the injured Portuguese. He added:
Madrid have been linked to Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho and Aston Villa defender Carlos Cuellar but reports emanating from Spain insist that Sergio Ramos is being seen as the perfect replacement for Pepe. Juande Ramos also validated Sergio Ramos’ ability to step into the central defensive position should the need arise.
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December 16, 2009 | Categories: Comments, News | Tags: Cristiano Ronaldo, Ezequiel Garay, Juande Ramos, Képler Pepe, Mahamadou Diarra, Sergio Ramos | Leave a comment