Real Madrid

What do you have to say concerning these reports?

I want to say that what was published isn't true. I have a good relationship with the coach and what took place at halftime was a private chat in the dressing room that is commong during matches that aren't going how we would like. At no time did I disrespect him. That is not who I am.

Even Granero confirmed that no incident took place.

We are all witnesses. My teammates, the medical staff, the physiotherapists, the doctor... It was a typical halftime discussion. I am proud that a teammate spoke of me in that way, especially when it is the truth.

What is your relationship with Manuel Pellegrini like?

It has been good since the beginning. He is one of the reasons I am still here. He had faith in me and I am proud to be here. My only job is to work hard and to try to make Real Madrid the very best.

There was a lot of tension in Tuesday's Copa match. As captain can you explain some of what took place.

I regret the gesture I made. My nerves got the best of me. A captain should never do that, so I apologize to the person to whom it was directed. You have to be fair, and when you make a mistake you have to know how to ask for forgiveness.

You are convinced that the team can turn the tie around and turn a negative into a positive.

Of course. I think it was a bad day. It was a bad result for us but we are very confident that we can turn this around. Things didn't turn out how they should have in Alcorcon, but all the players are very excited about this coach. We just ask for a little patience. We will try to make everything turn out for the best.

Pellegrini is starting to be questioned, but the players are standing by his side.

Absolutely. I think it is unfair to talk about whether he should stay or go. I think he is capable of coaching Real Madrid and that he is doing well. Anyone can have a bad week and now it's our turn. We are anxious for Saturday's match, which we want to win so that we have plenty of confidence for our game in Milan.