NEWS | 28/02/2021 | Alberto Navarro | PHOTOGRAPHER: Antonio Villalba
“Real are playing well but we're at home and we want to keep picking up points", said the coach.“In our team and at this club, when things are tough, we know how to navigate the critical moments, that's always been the same. There are difficult moments during the season but we have to carry on with what we've been doing recently. The season is long and there are still a lot of games left to play. We've not won anything yet”.
Favourites for LaLiga?
“Everyone will have an opinion but LaLiga is there to be won by anyone. The team out in front has the advantage but there are still 42 points on the table and we're going to keep doing our thing; playing good football and winning games. We have to focus on ourselves and we'll watch tonight's game, but as fans. Our goal is to take as many points as we can until the end of the season".
Turning point ahead of Huesca game
"It was a press conference like any other but perhaps I was a bit more vocal. The players are the same and they want to do a good job. We've been better since that game and now we have to keep it up because we've won nothing yet. We weren't all that bad before, nor are we that much better now. My players are always the best but we have to keep going, there's a long way to go. We have to keep improving".
In our team and at this club, when things are tough, we know how to navigate the critical moments, it's always been the case.
"We're only focused on our work on a daily basis. We can't look back or forward. Our concern is tomorrow's match and I see how committed these players are every day. That's a great thing, the most important element is that all these players are committed, they want to fight, and despite all they've won, they always want more".
Returning players
“Marcelo, Valverde, Ordiozola and Rodrygo are available because they're back training normally. It's wonderful for a coach and that's what we want, to have all our players available and ready to play".
Injuries
"It's inevitable, we can't do anything. These things happen in a team but I'm positive and we're getting players back at a crucial point because we're heading into the closing stages of the season. The important thing is to have everyone fit. Benzema and Hazard are improving but they're still not ready to play. I hope to have them back soon but I can't give you an exact date".
Isco
"We know his qualities and he's a Real Madrid player. He played well against Atalanta and he'll be involved like everyone else. We have to manage the minutes, that's my job. It's not that easy when you have such good players. We'll always use him. I have to make choices and there are lots of quality players in this team. He's a midfielder but he can play in two or three positions. He has to work hard, be patient and when he gets his chance, perform like the other day".
New contract for Ramos
"You always ask me this one. I want it sorted out as soon as possible but we've got a game coming up and that's all we're thinking about".