Real Madrid

After an hour-long workout on the pitch of Commerzbank-Arena, Bernd Schuster and Raúl took questions from the press.

SCHUSTER:
What does this match mean for your team?
This weekend marks the start of the season for both sides. It's a very important test and it's crucial that we feel good out there heading into the Super Cup. Eintracht are a strong rival and your typical German team. It's a good chance to see what our limitations are and to prepare in order to be in top form at the start of the season.

How has Van der Vaart adjusted? Will he play tonight?
It's very likely that he'll play. I am not sure for how long being that we are already thinking about Sunday. He's a great player, we did a great job of incorporating him into the squad from the moment he arrived, he went to Bogota and debuted the best way possible... He's a great player and he had an easy time adjusting.

Will we see the same starting lineup you intend to use on Sunday against Valencia?
Similar, but not exactly the same. We already know that Pepe cannot play the Super Cup, but he will start tonight.

Will all your available players be called up for the Super Cup?
We hope tonight's opponent wants to win, but not by any means necessary. Hopefully nothing will happen and that we all return safe and sound. The Super Cup is an official title and we want to win it. It is extremely important.

What are your thoughts on how the Cristiano Ronaldo matter was resolved?
I have focused on my squad, who I have complete faith in. Had he come, great. He didn't, but nothing to worry about. We're still on track to have a successful year.

And what about Robinho? 
I think Robinho looks good. He's been training just like his teammates and with the same happiness which he is known for. End of subject.

Are you relying on Julio Baptista?
We hope to have everyone play, but Metzelder, Ramos, and De la Red will see their first action and we have to see what state they are in. We have to keep a close eye on others because they have played every game. Julio will get playing time in the second half because he is a member of this squad.

Do you remember playing against Eintracht Frankfurt?
I recall a goal I scored from the centre circle against Leverkusen. It was the goal of the month in Germany. We won 4-1.

RAÚL:
It's a special match that commemorates the fifth European Cup.
It's a very special match because it's a part of history and it's always nice to pay tribute to legendary players from both sides. However, we have to look ahead because this is a big test which will show us where we stand. Many of our internationals will be playing for the first time, but we have to be just as demanding because we have to be in perfect condition for Sunday's match against Valencia.

How do you feel on this pitch?
We are very happy to be here. We hope everyone enjoys watching us play in a stadium as nice as this one.