Article
02 September 2010
Carlos Cristobal / Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell
In Jose Mourinho's absence, training was again supervised by Castilla coach Alejandro Menendez and the first team's assistant coach, Aitor Karanka. The seven remaining players of the first team were joined by Castilla.
Former Castilla player David Mateos was recently promoted, making this his first training session as a first teamer. Marcelo was also present; he is the only international who has been called up by his national team to train with Rreal Madrid this week. Brazil are set to begin training in Barcelona today and will remain in the northern city until 8 September.
Training was more intense this morning, combining physical workouts with ball exercises. The players worked on pressurising, passing the ball, organising the defence and moving the ball quickly. They then played several practice games in reduced pitches.