Real Madrid

You were practically unknown when you arrived in Madrid, but people admire you now.

I didn’t arrive as an emblematic figure. I was young, just 19 years old, but I liked the challenge. It was fantastic to have to prove signing me hadn’t been a mistake. I am very happy because I’ve had a positive experience, winning three titles and coming close to winning La Liga this year. I’ve gone through different stages. I played a lot this season and I felt great, but I know next year will be tough.

You were quite inexperienced when you arrived, which means you were practically formed as a player in Madrid. Are you still learning?

Yes, I am. I am young and I still have a lot to learn. I’ve played 100 games with Real Madrid and I want many more because I always aspire to break every record.

Was anxiety your worst enemy at first?

No. It was the sensation of having a chance to score and not being able to do so. It is tough for a striker when he doesn’t score. But I wasn’t anxious because I did get chances on goal. I admit the goal I scored that gave us the title influenced in my change, but I think what really made a difference was my will to be successful.

How do the fans treat you?

There’s a bit of hassle sometimes, but people in Madrid are very respectful. They understand when you sometimes don’t want to have your picture taken or sign autographs.

You must also be enjoying your social and financial stability. Your brother Federico plays for Independiente and suffers from the crisis in Argentinean football...

Sure... I am very privileged. I am very happy. I play for one of the best teams in the world and enjoy it every day. I like to train and to work hard on the pitch. I want to convince my team-mates, the coach and the fans. I like challenges. I think my team-mates are great. None regard themselves as stars. People may see it that way from the outset, but it’s very different inside. They are humble guys like you and me. We try to have lifestyles befitting the age we have. I am 21 years old and I try to have a normal life, as if I weren’t slightly famous.

Describe Raul for us.

I learn more from him by watching what he does than by talking to him. He is still humble despite everything he’s won. He works hard. Strikers keep coming, but he remains. It’s admirable...