Juande to Realmadrid.com
On Sunday, Juande Ramos will return to a stadium in which he was very successful: the Sanchez Pizjuan. The coach remembers his years at Sevilla in this exclusive interview.
Seville is a special city for you. What memories do you have of it?
I have unforgettable memories. I spent the best years of my coaching career in Seville. That’s where I won more titles. Returning to the city and to the Sanchez Pizjuan will bring back fond memories.
This is a record-breaking Real Madrid side. You will surpass Miguel Muñoz’s historic side by earning an 8th consecutive victory in Seville.
We’ve been lucky to break records thanks to our hard work. It’s curious that we could break a new one at a stadium in which I’ve been very successful.
Every title you won at Sevilla is important, but the two UEFA Cups probably stand out because they gave the club an international presence. Which is your favourite?
It’s hard to choose. Sevilla had never won a European title before. They had King’s Cups and a league title, but no European accolades. The UEFA Cup we won in Eindhoven meant a lot to the team, the city and the club. Sevilla had a reputation of failing in important games, but that victory killed all those fears and anxieties. It was beautiful to win that title, but the best part was the reception people gave us in Seville; it was indescribable.
It marked the beginning of a new era at the club…
It did, especially because most of us on the team had never won a title before. We were humble sportsmen that originally came from humble teams without chances of winning trophies. That Sevilla will always be remembered thanks to our hard work and drive. They gave us a spectacular reception in the City Hall. It left its mark on me. We then went on to win many more trophies, but I think my favourite was the first UEFA Cup.
Sevilla’s fans are strong and fun. How is it to hear them from the bench?
The support of fans in Seville is extremely important, so much so, that the Spanish national team didn’t lose when it played in Seville for years. Both Sevilla’s and Betis’ fans identify with their teams and carry them to success. I will never forget the semifinal against Shalke 04. The fans gave us an extra push that is found in very few other stadiums.
It will also be Sergio Ramos’ return to Seville. He always mentions Antonio Puerta when he wins a title. What do you think of when you see him do things like that?
He is a Sevilla supporter and a professional that does his best at Real Madrid and on the Spanish national team. He was born and raised in Seville and proves his Sevillismo whenever he has a chance. Antonio Puerta is on his shirt during every important moment. This says a lot about Sergio Ramos and shows his most human and humble side.
You won two of your titles with Sevilla at the Bernabeu…
Some things in life are hard to explain. We won the King’s Cup and the Spanish Super Cup here. I now sit on Real Madrid’s bench. I still haven’t won anything at my new club, but I won two of my titles with Sevilla here… It’s quite striking…
Is there a place you are especially fond of in Seville?
I can’t possibly pick one. Doing so would imply forgetting about many others. Every place in Seville is lovely. I love its people, the friends I left there, and the way they celebrate Easter.
Marcelo press conference
Marcelo decided to talk to the press in order to clarify what happened during the match with Getafe. The player admitted his behaviour was inappropriate.
Sad, sorry… How do you feel?
I’m happy because we took three points. Barcelona won again yesterday, so we couldn’t reduce their cushion in the end. We will fight to win the title.
Can you explain the incident between you and ‘Cata’ Diaz?
It was a very tough match. You want to win a game at all costs and you sometimes make mistakes. I did what I did and I said I was sorry. Things that happen between players shouldn’t leave the pitch. I want to say I’m sorry and, if the Club decides to punish me, I will accept its decision.
Are you aware of what happened?
Yes, that’s why I’ve admitted I made a mistake. A Real Madrid player should never do a thing like that. You learn from your mistakes. It was a tough game and we were all worked up.
Have you spoken about it with the veterans on the squad?
Raul has given me some advice. He said I should learn from my mistakes.
Has the Club told you it wishes to punish you?
I would understand if it decided to do so. I will accept its decision if that’s what it thinks should happen.
You even touched your crotch…
I didn’t do that, but I did stick my tongue out and I’m sorry for it. These actions should stay on the pitch.
What do you think of what happened to Pepe?
Pepe is always happy and laughing. He clearly made a mistake and I’m sure he’s sorry. We must support him because he’s always helped the rest of us out.
Have you spoken to him?
I think he should be left alone, but I must say I had never seen him act like that. He made a mistake and I’m sure he’s sorry.
Can that incident tarnish the great run you are having this year?
I’m in good form and I want to keep improving. I don’t think what happened will have a serious effect on us. We must think about Sevilla and win come what may.
You won against Getafe, but you paid a high price with the absences of Pepe and Robben for the next game…
They are important, but other players on the squad can take their place. We must be united and I believe we will do well in Seville.
What did you think of Barcelona’s game against Sevilla?
We must only think of ourselves. Nevertheless, Barcelona resolved the match early on with Iniesta’s goal. We thought Sevilla could do more at Camp Nou.
They may have been thinking about the match against you…
Every team wants to defeat Real Madrid. Look at how Getafe played in Barcelona and how they did over here. I’m sure it will be no different against Sevilla. Real Madrid’s badge means a lot and everyone wants to defeat us.
What advice has Juande given you to defeat Sevilla?
He told us our team spirit and faith the other day were very positive, and that we should capitalise on them in Seville.
Pepe to Marca
Pepe talked about the incident during the match with Getafe in an interview with Marca. The defender apologised again for what he did. He said he is having the hardest time of his life and that he will never act like that again. 
Now that a few hours have gone by since the Tuesday incident, how do you feel?
I’m distraught and I feel very sad. I feel like I’ve let myself down. I only find words to say I’m sorry to the players, their families, the fans and my team-mates. I didn’t act well.
What explanation can you give for your reaction after tackling Casquero inside the box?
I don’t know myself at that moment. I lost control during several minutes. I wanted to win in order to stay in the fight for the league title. My drive for a victory made me force a penalty.
How much is pressure to blame for what happened?
Those close to me know what football means to me and what I did was dishonest. I wanted to win the game because I regard the Club as my home. We needed three points and my mind twisted when I saw things were getting complicated. I thought I was to blame for Real Madrid losing the league title when I provoked the penalty. I was frustrated.
How have the past few hours been like for you?
That was the longest night of my life. I had never felt like that before and I hope I never do again. I fell asleep after 5 am and woke up at 8 am.
You seem to be greatly affected by all this. Have you cried?
I would be lying if I said I haven’t. I have shed some tears, but I’m lucky to have people around me to support me. I’m sure this will never happen again because I want to set a good example for my children. The worst punishment I could suffer is what I’m going through these days.
Have you personally apologised to Getafe’s players?
I’m going to ask Real Madrid to get their phone numbers. I want to apologise to Casquero, Albin and their families.
Just another Madridista
Junta speak