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.

Does he behave well? He may become a football player one day...

He could be great! I’m serious. He is left footed and has a powerful shot despite being only two years old. Left footed players are the best in Holland.

He will be the new Maradona!

That’s right! But he’ll never be like his father, though; I shoot with both feet (laughs).

What did you think of Spain’s performance in the Euro 2008?

I was very happy for Spain. I preferred them to win instead of Germany. Their football was amazing and I had two friends on their ranks, Sergio Ramos and Casillas. Spain deserved to win the championship. They are a strong, quality team. They were nevertheless lucky because Russia played incredibly well against us and badly against them.

Iker told me he would’ve preferred playing against you and that they would’ve also kicked you around...

Sure, sure. I’ll have to talk to him about that. Show-off... (laughs).

Did you congratulate them?

Yes, I sent them text messages. I didn’t call because I knew they would be very busy with the celebrations and all. I was very happy for them.

Which goal have you set yourself this season?

I played very badly for three months last year and this time around I want to perform at a constant level. I always want to play well. I know it won’t be possible to do so in every game, but that’s my goal. I am anxious to play again.

What’s your dream for this year?

To win Real Madrid’s tenth European Cup.