Esteban Granero has returned to Real Madrid. The player told Publico he believes he has chances of earning a spot on the starting lineup.
Article
31 July 2009
Realmadrid.com / Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell
Esteban Granero has returned to Real Madrid. The player told Publico he believes he has chances of earning a spot on the starting lineup.
Is it inevitable for a youth teamer to be loaned out at some point, like you were at Getafe?
It doesn't necessarily have to be inevitable. It's just an option and I am not against it. It was good for me. It's hard for Castilla players who perform in the Second Division B to be ready enough to play on the first team and meet the demands of Real Madrid. It's good for players to gain experience at other clubs.
Do you think a signed player can feel as passionately for Real Madrid as an academy player?
I'm sure those who didn't come from the youth system will defend this shirt to the death, but being a youth teamer is special. Things change a little when you've worn this kit for 12 or 13 years, like I have.
Did you think you'd come back or had you lost hope?
I never lost hope, but it became complicated for me to return at one point. The Club had faith in me and I am very grateful for that. I wish to pay them back with good performances.
Do you believe Real Madrid's bet on the youth system is real?
Yes, why not? The thing is the Club can't bet on all of us. Youth teamers can't be on the first team as a general rule; they have to earn it.
What can you bring to the team's midfield?
Excitement, drive, hard work, sacrifice... I hope things turn out for the best.
Where has Pellegrini told you he wants you to play?
He knows I'm a versatile player, who can play either as an attacking midfielder or as a winger. He'll use me where he deems it best. I am ready to do what he asks and he's told me he has faith in me.
Has Raul given you any advice upon your return to the team?
We've known each other for a long time and he is always very fond of the players that come from the youth system. He came from there too and that's maybe why he is so affectionate with us. He's given us all the advice one can give and he supports us. He is a good captain.
Has Real Madrid changed much in the last couple of years?
Yes, and I think it's happened for the best. This team seems more solid than the one I left to join Getafe, which coincidentally ended up winning the league title. I hope we can win more titles this year.
Will it be hard to earn a starting spot on the team?
It will be hard because this is a complicated team in which to earn a spot, but I think it is possible; if I didn't, I would step out of the way. I have faith in my chances and I believe I can achieve a lot through hard work and sacrifice, but I know it won't be easy.
Is it impressive to share a dressing room with the latest two Ballon d'Or winners?
It is very nice and exciting. You can learn a lot from them. They are idols of mine and I've watched them play on TV. It's great to have the chance to pass them the ball.
Who were your childhood heroes?
Zidane and Raul.
How did you feel when the crowd chanted your name in your first game at the Bernabeu?
It made me very happy to see that the fans still remembered me that well. I guess the fact that I am an academy player means something to them. I am grateful for their support. It boosts your morale and that is always important.
Arbeloa is also a former academy player. Is it really necessary to play for other teams in order to be valued by the Club?
As I said before, sometimes you don't have enough quality for the first team when you come straight from Castilla. Arbeola played for Liverpool, where demands are higher than on our second team. Arbeola, myself and others have benefitted from the years we spent on other teams.
Do you think you have greater chances of playing for Spain now?
That's one of my goals, but I haven't set myself a deadline. It will depend on the performances I give with my team.
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