Real Madrid

How have your holidays been like? Did you travel to many places or did you stay in one place?

My vacation has been phenomenal. It’s a shame it is now over. I went to the beach, dined in several restaurants and enjoyed myself with my family. I’ve had a lot of time to spend with my wife and my son Jersey. I like to be calm and rest during my holidays, but that doesn’t mean I don’t do anything. I play tennis and football with my brothers and I do lots of different things to avoid boredom.

I guess you saw Rafael Nadal’s and Roger Federer’s impressive Wimbledon final?

(Laughs). Nadal is incredible. His skill with a racket is amazing. I couldn’t get my eyes off the television set. I was very happy for him when he won. Naturally, I’m no way as good as he is, but I’m the best amongst my brothers because I always defeat them (laughs).

The pre-season has started for you in the Algarve. How do you feel now that work is back?

I always like to return to work with my friends. I’ve only had three weeks off in the end, but I think they were enough. I don’t need any more days to rest. I want to train hard, grow strong again and enjoy the competitions we will play in. That’s what makes me really happy. I end up missing football when I don’t play for a while. Holidays are good for me to spend time with my family and to rest, but I wanted to come back.

You believe the current Real Madrid squad can win the Champions League...

I do. We were eliminated by Roma because we had many injured players. I think that if Ramos, Robben and myself had been there that day the team would have won.

What did you do during your holidays?

I spent one week in Holland and then came here to the Algarve with my family. This part of Portugal is beautiful and I have a great time here. This is the fourth time we come. I love it. The beach is spectacular. My family enjoys itself here.

Besides playing tennis, what more have you done to keep in shape?

I haven’t practised sport every day, but I have tried to be active during the holidays. It’s good to rest and forget what surrounds you on a daily basis sometimes. I played with my brothers and my son on the beach.