Chus Mateo: "Working hard and being patient are the keys to fighting to win titles".
"We are expecting a tough game but we are going to go out to get the win", said Llull ahead of the trip to Bayern.
Chus Mateo and Sergio Llull spoke prior to Real Madrid‘s EuroLeague opener against Bayern Munich (Thursday, 8.45pm CEST). The coach said: "It's a big game for them and for us too as it's the start of a competition in which we're usually at the top and in contention to win the title".
"We're just getting the season underway and we're also getting to know each other. We have to keep working, be patient and do things well. That's essential for us to be in a position to compete for the titles throughout the campaign. We have to see things in perspective and take things calmly and patiently. We have to ignore what's going on outside. We're going to work together and without compromise, as this is what will take us to the top".
Feliz and Rathan-Mayes settling in
"You can never tell how long it will take for a player to settle into a team. They're working hard, they're doing their best to get to know their teammates, and how their team plays. We know that they're very good players, like Garuba and Ibaka, who are the four new signings. We have to allow them the time they need. It's all part of a process and it takes time. You have to be ready from the off at Real Madrid as it is a special club. They're good players and they'll do well".
Hezonja's absence
"He had a viral illness last week, a high fever and he lost a lot of weight. He has started training, but we've had the good news that he's probably going to be a father today. He's not with us today. We don't know if he's going to be available. Hopefully he can be here but we're not sure".
Possible reinforcements and Hezonja's position
"I've got 13 players and I don't know if that's going to change, but either way we have to work hard and see where we need something or not. The only thing I'm worried about with the good players I've got is to get going now and to start working. We'll identify the position and if and when we need something. We're just focusing on tomorrow's game".
"Hezonja is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions. We'll put him in the position where his team needs him. I'm delighted that he's still with us and that's what matters to me".
Hugo González's role
"Uncertainty can come from the outside. We talk a lot. If he's here he's decided to stay...He'll have his chances. I have high hopes for a great basketball player, an international player. He's training really well and I'm sure that he'll have his chance sooner rather than later. He got some minutes last year. He has the patience and the work ethic and so do I".
Llull: "We're working well"
"We're very excited and looking forward to the Euroleague. It's going to be very tough because the other teams have been strengthened very well but we always have the ambitious objective of reaching the Final Four and fighting for the title. We're working well. The team needs time. We've only just started, we've been working together for a month".
Bayern
"Playing against Real Madrid is a big game for everyone. We're expecting a tough game, against a side that always makes life difficult for us. Plus, at their place, the crowd will be behind them, but we're going to try to go out and get the win".