Rafael van der Vaart and Joselu – no Ribery yet
Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has been told he still has a future at Real Madrid. Van der Vaart was told he could leave the club and not only had to train away from the first-team squad but was not even given a squad number for this season. But the departure of fellow Dutchmen Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder last week for Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, respectively, has handed Van der Vaart a reprieve.
The 26-year-old and his lawyer, Robert Geerlings, recently met with Real coach Manuel Pellegrini, technical director Jorge Valdano and general director Jose Angel Sanchez. And having already turned down a move to Turkish champions Besiktas this summer, Geerlings admitted it was unexpected to hear Van der Vaart was still wanted at the Bernabeu.
He told weekly football magazine Voetbal International:
At the meeting Rafael was urgently requested to stay at Real. The squad has been decreased to 25 players and that made them decide that Rafael doesn’t have to leave anymore. For us, it was very surprising, and Rafael has decided to fight for his place in Madrid.
Geerlings also claimed that two English clubs made offers for Van der Vaart but he now insists:
It’s official, Rafael will stay at Real Madrid.
In other news, Real Madrid have bought teenage Spanish forward José Luís Mato from Celta Vigo. The 19-year-old, a member of Spain’s under-21 squad and known as Joselu, will remain at Celta on loan this season, Real said on their website.
Nothing about Franck Ribery yet.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Granero to Telemadrid
Esteban Granero is one of Real Madrid’s new signings. The academy player sat down with Telemadrid and talked about his objectives for the season and the warm welcome he has received.
How do you feel after leaving the uncertainty about your future behind?
I never lost hope of playing for Real Madrid. When you have a dream, you must fight to make it come true. Things got complicated, but luckily I signed for the Club, which is all I ever wanted, and now everything depends on me.
With so much manpower up front, do you think Pellegrini could include players like you in the line-up and leave one of the forwards out?
It’s good that we have lots of goal scorers. We have to find a way of making good use of this potential and I’m a player capable of getting the ball through to them.
It seems the fans are on your side…
Fans like the effort and will-power of academy players. The years spent at Valdebebas are very important and I learned a lot there. I’m grateful about the warm welcome I’ve received and now I want to pay them back through my effort and ambition. It’s the least I can do.
Do you remember the 1999 7-a-side international tournament final in which Real Madrid defeated Barcelona after you scored a goal in extra time?
It’s one of the many good memories I have from the academy. Now I’ve returned to the Club and I can’t waste the chance.
What play would you like to repeat, serving an assist to Raul from the corner-kick or scoring a goal after Kaka’s heel pass?
Both plays in a single game would do.
Del Bosque has already answered questions about you. Is playing for Spain’s national team one of your goals?
Since playing for the national team depends on what you do at your club, my only goals relate to playing for Real Madrid. Once you become an important club player you can start reaping rewards such as being called-up for the national team.
Usain Bolt to Realmadrid.com
Usain Bolt shared his happiness for being at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in an interview with the Club’s official media.
Welcome to Real Madrid. It is an honour to have you here.
It is an honour for me to be here.
How’s this experience been for you?
It’s been wonderful. I’ve enjoyed everything, especially the stadium. The crowd really accepted me. It was wonderful.
Last night, 80,000 fans cheered for you. It was the first time you said you were nervous…
I was really nervous. My heart was pounding. It was a great experience. I really enjoyed it.
How did it feel to be down on the pitch?
It was a different experience for me. I remember I saw Cristiano Ronaldo’s presentation and thought it was amazing. It was the same for me yesterday. It was overwhelming, but I enjoyed it very much. It was beautiful.
What did you think of the team during the game?
The team has the best players. I think the match was good overall. The chemistry wasn’t quite there yet, but I believe that over time the players will get to know each other better. They won and I think they will be even better in time.
The pitch is 106 metres long. You could run it in no time…
The pitch looks smaller once you are on it… I think I would definitely be a good footballer (laughs).
Real Madrid Castilla 1-3 Atletico Madrid B
Castilla faced Atletico Madrid B in their first match of the campaign after having a great run in the preseason, but they failed to snatch a victory. Atletico played a serious game and took advantage of the few mistakes made by the Madridistas to win the match.
REAL MADRID CASTILLA: Adan; Velayos, Gary, Juanan, Anton; Juan Carlos (Cristian, 50′), Tebar, Mosquera (Cordero, 60′), Juanfran (Luis Hernandez, 50′); Javi H., Szalai.
ATLETICO MADRID B: Joel; Sergio Rodriguez, Javi Cantero, Regalon (Pulido, 50′), Atienza; Ruben Perez, Keko, Jimenez, Borja (Ibrahim, 60′); Joshua, Cedric (Portilla, 72′).
GOALS:
0-1 (16′): Cedric
0-2 (26′): Joshua
0-3 (82′): Atienza
1-3 (87′): Cristian
Referee: Ramos Rodriguez.
Booked Javi Cantero (38′) & Gary (42′);
Notes: Matchday 1 in the Group 2 of the Second Division B.
Usain Bolt press conference
Usain Bolt gave a press conference in the Press Room of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The Jamaican athlete shared his thoughts about the great day he had yesterday in the Spanish capital.
Did you feel like playing when you stepped onto the pitch?
I’ve always enjoyed football and stepping onto the pitch was a beautiful experience.
Would you be able to run 100 metres with a ball at your feet?
I think so. I can run very fast with a ball at my feet.
Is Manchester United also one of your favourite teams?
I’ve always liked Real Madrid, but Ruud van Nistelrooy has always been one of my favourite players and I followed him when he played for ManU. I support Real Madrid in La Liga and Manchester United in the Premiership.
Do you think you could beat Cristiano Ronaldo in a 100 metre race with and without the ball?
I’m sure I would. I’m the fastest man in the world and it would be easy (laughs).
You are regarded as one of the best sportsmen in the world. Why do you think your feats are more celebrated than those of Bekele?
I work very hard all year to be the best. I am breaking records and that’s what people value. Short distance running has always been popular in athletics.
How was it to kick the ball on the pitch?
I needed to go out again after the game. It was very special for me to kick-off the game. I had never been that nervous. It was a new and beautiful sensation. I wanted to go back.
How was it to have dinner with Cristiano Ronaldo?
I thank him for inviting me. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed my time with him and his family. Spanish food is fantastic. Roasted suckling pig is my favourite meal.
Do you want to be the best athlete the world has ever seen?
My goal this year was to win in the World Championships, but my dream is to become a legend.
Post-match comments
Director General Jorge Valdano was very happy with the team’s victory over Deportivo La Coruña. He also wished to clarify the controversial comments attributed to him about Milito. Manuel Pellegrini was satisfied with his team’s performance against Deportivo La Coruña. Ricardo Izecson ´Kaka´ made his debut in La Liga in the team’s 3-2 victory against Deportivo La Coruña at the Bernabeu. The Brazilian was delighted with the victory. Xabi Alonso and Arbeloa were happy with the team’s performance against Deportivo.
Jorge Valdano:
On the result:
The team did very well. There was a bit of irregularity in its performance, but this is normal at this stage. The team has seven new players on the starting eleven, which are too many. People should understand the coach is working very hard to make them all blend together.
The great professional nature of our players is the great advantage we have to improve. We were in trouble two or three times during the game, but the team moved on nevertheless. The match had moments of fantastic individual quality. We should all be very happy.
The enthusiasm on the stands before the match was a sign of how excited all Madridistas are about the team. We must live up to their expectations and we know that won’t be easy. The players know this too. This was a complicated match. It was very hot and the players were nervous because it was the first fixture. You could tell they were nervous in some individual plays. Nevertheless, I hope it all flows better from now on.
On the misunderstanding with Milito:
I have nothing to clarify concerning my comments on the differences between Real Madrid and Barcelona. The quotes were faithful with the opinions I expressed in the interview. Regarding the supposed comments I made about Milito, the press agency personally told me they made a mistake and misquoted me, so I wish to clarify this. I’ve already done so with Barcelona’s President and I tried to do so with the player, who is in Argentina right now. I sent him an SMS. The quotes were very controversial, but I haven’t seen or heard a single mention of the press agency’s rectification. I hope Milito recovers soon because he is a great player and an excellent person. That’s why we were interested in signing him at one stage.
On Usain Bolt:
He is one of those sportsmen that make all of us believe humans can really go beyond limits. He makes us believe man can achieve whatever he wants. Bolt will always be a sporting legend because his feats are extraordinary.
Manuel Pellegrini:
I am happy for several reasons. Firstly, because there is always much anticipation and players get nervous in a first game. Secondly, because we scored three goals and had many chances to net more.
We created danger down the wings through Cristiano, Kaka, Arbeloa, etc. We dominated every spot in attack against a complicated opponent that is virtually the same side it was last year. They have the same coach and they are good in defence and at counterattacking. We constantly looked to score and they hardly had any chances on our goal. I also believe we did a good job in defence.
I don’t really know if we suffered, but I can tell you the match was tight. We had the chance to earn a more ample victory; Benzema’s shot to the post is a good example of this.
I think the team is balanced and I believe Xabi Alonso and Lass did a great job. We have much potential in attack and these two players balance the team. I think our centre backs made no mistakes except for the goal Deportivo scored from a set piece. We still have time to improve on defending aerial plays.
Kaka:
It was a good game. The most important thing was to win and take three points. It wasn’t an easy match and I think the victory is more important for that. It is fantastic to play at this stadium. The fans always support us, especially when things get tough. We had many chances on goal. I think it’s natural for opponents to try to cover spaces in which we could move. The important this is that we won tonight.
Xabi Alonso:
We have just started, so we must take things slowly. We gave the game a good pace throughout the entire 90 minutes and I guess we’ll do even more in time. We all played during the preseason, but less than we wanted. We will get to know each other gradually better. The important thing tonight was to win the match and we did. There are many new players on the squad, so it’s natural that we weren’t in optimum form tonight. We are nevertheless making progress. It was very hot tonight and Deportivo made things hard for us.
Arbeloa:
Taking three points was what really counted. We will gradually play better. We will obviously concede goals against offensive sides such as Deportivo. We will work hard to improve in defence. I think the game was slow because it was very hot. The fans’ support was great, as always. It’s amazing to see 80,000 people cheering for the team throughout the entire match. We are grateful for that.
Real Madrid 3-2 Deportivo La Coruña
Real Madrid defeated Deportivo 3-2 in their first game in the 2009/10 edition of La Liga. The visiting side played well in defence and made good use of their chances in attack, but failed to overcome the Madridistas, Raul, Cristiano and Lass scored for the Whites. Usain Bolt kicked-off the match.
Looking to keep possession and give spectacle, Real Madrid dominated the match from the start. Kaka had a chance on goal just one minute into the game. All Deportivo could do was keep their defensive line organised to try to thwart the Whites’ bouts in attack. Their attack basically consisted on isolated plays and set pieces.
After a few minutes of complete local dominance, the game came to a standstill, seeing how Real Madrid had trouble trying to move past Deportivo’s defence. All this changed when Kaka received a ball down the right wing on the 25-minute mark. The Brazilian ventured towards the goal diagonally and passed the ball to Benzema between defenders. The Frenchman hit the post, but Raul picked up the deflection and scored the opener. Four minutes later, Riki netted a header for Deportivo in a set piece.
Real Madrid didn’t give up and managed to end the first half in the lead again thanks to a penalty awarded to Raul and scored by Ronaldo. The Portuguese star sent the ball in grazing the left post (33′). Cristiano had a shot that was slightly off target after half-time and Deportivo scored another equalizer through Valeron, who scored from outside the box after receiving a great pass from Guardado. The Northern side proved threatening in counterattacks and Valeron failed to score again from a great chance.
Lass pulled rank in the 58th minute and, after dribbling past an opponent, netted a terrific shot grazing the left post from outside the box. Pellegrini’s men dominated the fixture from the on and earned an important first victory.
Lineups:
Real Madrid: Casillas, Arbeloa, Albiol, Garay, Marcelo, Lass, Xabi Alonso, Kaká (Guti H. 83′), Cristiano Ronaldo, Raúl (Granero 64′), Benzema (Higuaín 74′);
Deportivo de La Coruña: Aranzubia, Laure, Zé Castro, Lopo, Filipe, Juca, Juan Rodríguez, Guardado, Pablo Álvarez (Lafita 65′), Valerón (Iván Pérez 69′), Riki (Mista 74′);
Goals:
2-1, 35′: Cristiano Ronaldo (Pen)
Notes: Matchday 1 in la Liga. Jamaican athlete Usain Bolt kicked-off the match and watched it from the Presidential Balcony.
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Attendance: full house.
Real Madrid vs Deportivo La Coruna | Spanish Primera Division | Round 1 | Preview
Real Madrid and Deportivo La Coruña will clash tonight at 20:00 CET at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in the first match of the 2009/10 edition of La Liga.
This will be the first official match of a team destined to be great after the efforts made by the Club to strengthen the squad. With a new coach and six new players, many hopes are set on Real Madrid this year and the team wants to have a good start to the campaign.
Pepe is suspended for the fixture and Ramos will also miss it due to an injury. Diarra and Van NIstelrooy are in the finishing stages of their respective recoveries and won’t be at the game.
Deportivo had an irregular preseason, but they are always a dangerous opponent. They have a well-structured defensive line and play straightforward football. Their goal this year is to qualify to play in a European competition next sason and they will do their best to snatch points tonight at the Bernabeu. Lassad, Adrian Lopez and Tomas Lopez will miss the match due to injuries. On the other hand, Ze Castro recovered in time for the clash and will travel with the team to Madrid.
First squad list of the season
All new signings are included in the squad list. On the other hand, Sergio Ramos misses the game due to an injury, Pepe is suspended, and Van Nistelrooy and Diarra are going through the last stages of their recovery plan.
SQUAD LIST:
Goalkeepers: Casillas, Dudek
Defenders: Marcelo, Albiol, Metzelder, Garay, Arbeloa
Midfielders: Gago, Lass, Guti, Drenthe, Granero, Xabi Alonso
Forwards: Raul, Higuain, Benzema, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo
Pellegrini press conference
Coach Manuel Pellegrini gave a press conference and discussed the latest Real Madrid news and tomorrow’s game against Deportivo La Coruña.
Sneijder and Robben have left the team. Does it affect your plans?
No, I knew from the beginning the Club had to sell players some players. They are good players but I can’t complain because we have two players per spot and the squad is now closed.
Robben’s abilities made him a different player from the rest. Does it worry you he has left?
Robben offered us several alternatives. However, the players who will take his place will help the team too. I knew he was highly thought of, but he liked the offer and the decision was made between the Club and the player.
There’s much talk about Cristiano and his place in the team.
Cristiano has never said he is unhappy. He plays in a position he likes, the same he played in at Manchester United. I think we are analysing him at a moment in which no one is at their best shape. I believe we’ll see a great Cristiano this season, starting from Saturday’s game.
Would you like to sign Ribery?
I’d love to have every player in the world, but it can’t be. I think the squad is complete and we don’t need any more players.
Isn’t it painful that the Club favours financial over technical reasons when releasing players?
The Club has given me everything I asked for. I knew this would happen. We have made spectacular signings and I’m happy with it. The team has greatly improved its potential.
What do you think about Real Madrid opponents in the Champions League?
They are all difficult sides. Being in the second drum we knew we would be in the same group as a very strong team, such as Milan. However, Real Madrid is capable of winning against any team. I only care about advancing to the next round.
Raúl González to Realmadrid.com
Raul sat down for an interview prior to starting his sixteenth league season as Madridista. He is confident that this squad can fight to win every title.
How do you feel about the season which is about to begin?
I’m excited, as all Madridistas are. There’s a new project and new players, very important footballers who have improved the squad. We want the Bernabeu to enjoy our game once more and we’re going to fight for every title.
Has the excitement of the fans reached the players?
Yes, we have felt the atmosphere created around the team mainly during the preseason games. We have played more games at the Bernabeu thanks to the Peace Cup and we received a very nice welcome. The same happened in the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy. You can tell fans are looking forward to watching the games and seeing the new players on the pitch. We’re all anxious to win games. Now that the season is about to begin, we hope to pay back the fans with good football and victories.
How were the first days of work?
It all went well. We have a new coach who has brought new ideas to the team and we have adapted well to them. The main goal has always been to win games and showcase good football and we’ve been moving closer to achieving it with each game we played. We arrive in good shape to the start of La Liga.
It’s a positive balance, then…
Yes. Regardless of the match results, in preseason it’s paramount to build a team before the league kicks-off. The team has processed the new concepts and everything has turned out well. We didn’t have any injuries and every member of the squad has helped the team and taken part in games.
What impression has Pellegrini made on you?
He has caused good impression. His job at Villareal during the last years has been very good. He knows Spanish football and its players inside-out. He’s doing a great job. We’re happy about his ideas and the concept he has of the game. We are willing to give joy to fans and show what we have achieved so far.
There have been several new signings and they have adapted well to the team…
Yes. The squad is made up of nice people and that makes adaptation easier for the new players. They are very important players who want to do things right. They are adapting quickly and that’s good news because that way they can give everything they’ve got.
Mahamadou Diarra to Realmadrid.com
Diarra has recovered from an injury which has kept him off the pitch during eight months. In an interview to Realmadrid.com, the midfielder talks about his recovery process and how happy he is to be able to help the team once more.
Are you happy now you’ve left behind such hard times?
I’m very happy right now. I work with the team and I can touch the ball normally.
How did you feel when the doctors told you the seriousness of your injury?
In fact, I knew there was something wrong with my knee before they told me. I tried to hold on a bit longer so I could help the team but my knee finally gave up and I had to undergo surgery. The knee was 80% broken. Both cartilages and the outer meniscus were broken. It was an extremely serious injury.
It’s the worst injury for a footballer.
Yes, it’s one of the worst things that can happen not only to footballers, but to anyone. We all depend on our knees because they’re one of the parts which bear the weight of the whole body. If they don’t work properly, even walking becomes difficult. Not to mention running.
Tell us about your recovery process.
It has been my worst time as a professional. They were very, very difficult moments. I was on crutches for the first two months, which was hard. Then I spent five or six months working on my own in the gym. Everything has been difficult. I hope to never go through these eight months again in my life. I don’t wish it to happen to any other footballer either.
During your recovery period, each small step forward must have been a happy moment…
Yes, it was. But it’s finally over and I’m happy. I work to gradually recover my strength. I’m happy that my knee is not giving me any problems and now I’m ready to help the team, which is what I want most.
Milan, Marseille and Zurich: Easy or tough?
The Champions League draw is over. We are in Group C along with AC Milan, Olympique Marseille and FC Zurich.
Huntelaar finally has a chance to hunt us down. He can learn from Fernando Morientes on how to do it. Morientes will be yet another former Madridista returning along with Heinze when Marseille face us. Also, from our side, Kaka will make an emotion return to the San Siro.
It sounds more like an emotional group stage than a competitive one doesn’t it?
We shall wait and see.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
P.S: Barca drew Inter. Bayern drew Juve. Hahahahahaha!
And he does…
Arjen Robben has confirmed he has accepted an offer to join Bayern Munich. A return to England has been mooted for the Dutchman with Tottenham credited with an interest in the former Chelsea star, and in recent days Manchester United have also been linked with the player. However, Bayern Munich have stolen a march on their rivals by agreeing a €25million (£22million) deal with Real to bring the Dutch international to the Allianz Arena. Robben believes moving to Bayern is the best option for him as he is unlikely to be playing regularly for Real this season. Robben told Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad:
This morning I made my decision. This is the best choice for me.
The news of Robben’s imminent arrival is sure to fuel speculation that Franck Ribery could leave Bayern before the close of the transfer window.
A bad bad day.
P.S: Where is Fernando Gago?
Sneijder leaves, Robben to follow.
I just cannot stand whats happening at Real Madrid. Sneijder has left or rather has been kicked out. Robben is right behind him. If this is how Senor Perez expected to earn all that he spent on the club then I really don’t see a point. Doesn’t Pellegrini have any kind of a say in these issues?
Read this…
Wesley Sneijder insists he is looking forward to joining new club Inter Milan but added that his departure from Real Madrid had left a bad taste in his mouth. Despite establishing himself at the Bernabeu since joining from Ajax in July 2007, the 25-year-old found himself surplus to requirements and has signed a five-year deal with Inter for a fee thought to be around €15million (£13.2million). The Dutchman claims that he was happy to stay and fight for his place in the Spanish capital but in the end he had very little say in his future. He told Marca:
I’m going with my head high. I’m going to a great team, there’s no doubt about that. I’ve been very happy here but now I have to look ahead and focus on my new team. The truth is that I was very happy here, it’s something that I cannot deny. It makes me sad to go but that’s the way it is. That’s life. Now the only thing I can say is that I’m happy. I’m changing one great club for another great club.
Many expected Sneijder to be one of the players to be kept on by Real and the midfielder admits that if it was up to head coach Manuel Pellegrini he would still be at the club. He added:
What has happened with me is something very strange. The coach said he counted on me but there are people at the club who don’t. They have treated me very badly but I prefer not to talk about it. I’m going to give everything there [Inter]. Life and football move on.
And this…
Bayern Munich are closing in on the signing of Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben, according to reports in Spain. The Dutchman is believed to be on his way to Munich on Thursday to undergo a medical and sign a contract in a deal worth in the region of €25m after Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness reportedly flew to Madrid on Wednesday for talks with Real president Florentino Perez. Perez has already confirmed an agreement has been reached between the two clubs in an interview on Spanish radio station Onda Cero, but Bayern will not confirm the deal until the player has signed.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lass press conference
Everyone believes Lass Diarra will be a key player at Real Madrid this season. The midfielder told the media he will always do what the coach asks of him.
Do you find the responsibility of wearing the number ’10′ shirt daunting?
I still don’t have a fixed number. I wore the number ’10′ shirt against Rosenborg because it was free at the time. I still don’t know who will wear it during the season.
It used to be Wesley Sneijder’s shirt. He said good-bye to you all today. How was he?
We wish him all the best. What’s happened is between him and the Club. He is a great player and a good friend.
You scored a great goal against Rosenborg thanks to having more freedom on the pitch. Will it always be like this or did the coach give you this freedom because it was a friendly game?
It was part of our attacking plan, but I am a defensive player and I always do what the coach says.
Who do you think will feel more pressure, Barcelona or Real Madrid?
I think we’ll both feel the same pressure. Real Madrid have made good signings this year and shouldn’t look at what others do. We must focus solely on oursleves.
What do you think of the job Cristiano Ronaldo is doing?
The Premiership is very different to La Liga and he needs time to adapt. He has enough quality to do that.
How good is Real Madrid’s midfield when compared to Barcelona’s?
Real Madrid have strengthened theirselves with players like Xabi and Granero. It is hard to make comparisons. Barcelona have a great midfield, but we made good reinforcements.
St.Iker and Benzema speak
Iker Casillas said in a football campus held in Avila that he believes the squad is solid and strong to fight for all the titles at stake. Karim Benzema told L’Equipe that he is amazed by the Madridistas’ passion at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The player also said he feels comfortable on the team.
Casillas:
A balanced squad has been built, which is what many of us wanted. We failed in the three competitions we played in last year. We wanted a team with which the coach wouldn’t have trouble to come up with a solid starting line-up and strong enough to fight for the three titles at stake in the best possible way.
I want to get rid of the thorn on my side after last season. We want to play well and make the fans happy. The Club has made a great effort to sign excellent players and we must all now do our best to win.
Benzema:
Not being the best player in the world means you still have to make progress. We all have a personal goal in life. Mine is to be the best player in the world.
Discovering the passion exuded at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium has changed my life. We have to give spectacle for the fans. There is so much passion here! It’s crazy!
Lass has helped me to adapt to the team. I feel comfortable playing with Cristiano Ronaldo, Raul and Kaka. I know I had a good preseason.
Xabi Alonso to Realmadrid.com
The midfielder sat down for an interview with Publico and talked about his role as the team’s central midfielder.
You were signed to organise a team formed by Cristiano, Kaka, Benzema, Lass, Raul… How will you do it?
One player on his own can’t do it; it’s up to the whole team to organise itself and have a collective awareness. We’re still in the preseason and adapting to the coach’s ideas.
And those ideas are…
Keeping possession, controlling the pace of the game, being dynamic in offense…
How can you tell when it’s time to play quickly or to calm down?
It depends on what the teams needs at each moment of the game. A match sometimes gets out of hand, and you feel you must slow it down and hold possession for longer instead of rushing into the opponent’s goal.
How much time will it take for the team to make the ball flow easily?
It takes time for the players to adapt to each other. There’s no way of knowing how long it will take.
Kaka, Cristiano and Benzema play better with open spaces, don’t they?
Yes, they can take advantage of their powerful pace, but there will be many games where the opponents will wait for us in defence, especially at the Bernabeu. We have to find a way of breaking through the defence without making use of wide open spaces.
What is Pellegrini looking for when he includes Pepe in midfield?
Pepe is a powerful player, good at recovering the ball and strong in one-on-ones. He’s not bad as midfielder.
Estadio Santiago Bernabéu beckons!
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is bound to re-live a European classic as Real Madrid will share group with Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Milan or Bayern Munich. The draw will start at 18.00 CET in Monaco.
All first-drum teams have a history with Real Madrid. Liverpool knocked Real Madrid out in last edition’s tournament and Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso would meet their former team-mates. Also, Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Manchester. Arsenal have eliminated the Whites recently. Chelsea won the 1970 Cup Winner’s Cup against the Madridistas. The clashes between Milan and Real Madrid during the 1980s have become legendary, as have the ones against Bayern Munich at the turn of the century.
The strongest teams from the third drum are French champions Girondins Bordeaux and Stuttgart, while the fourth drum has German champions Wolfsburg as the most threatening side.
REAL MADRID’S POSSIBLE OPPONENTS:
Drum 1: Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Milan, Bayern Munich
Drum 3: Olympiacos, O. Marseille, Dynamo Kiev, Stuttgart, Fiorentina, Girondins Bordeaux, Besiktas
Drum 4: Wolfsburg, Standard Liege, Maccabi Haifa, Zurich, Rubin Kazan, Urinea Urziceni, Apoel, Debreceni
Metzelder to Fifa.com
Christoph Metzelder talked to Fifa.com about Real Madrid’s preseason and his role as a defender.
You’re seen as a very modern type of central defender operating in what has become one of the most difficult roles in football. How intelligent do you have to be to become a world-class defender?
I think that first of all, we have to differentiate between intelligence and being a clever player. When the back-pass rule came into effect and the role of libero-type sweeper, hitherto very popular in Germany, was often replaced by a flat defensive line, the game certainly changed a lot for defenders. You’re more responsible for building up play these days and the requirements of the position have become a lot tougher. Defenders now have be playmakers while the attackers are free to be more artistic.
Tell us, what’s it like being with stars like Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, day in and day out?
[laughs] Ha, a lot of the hype comes from the media. When you get into the changing room, you’re all team-mates together and it’s a lot more down to earth. They’re both perfectly regular team-mates as far as I’m concerned. They are exceptional players and off the pitch they’re totally different in terms of personality – one of them is pretty quiet, the other a lot less so.
Could you summarise the legend surrounding Real Madrid in a few sentences…?
Real is a blend of the old and the new, and that’s what make the club special. The amazing tradition, coupled with a real ambition to go forward, be successful and win titles. When you think that in Spain there is the king, and then after him comes Real Madrid – that says a lot!
You were strong enough to handle the pressure of marshalling the German defence at two FIFA World Cups, but now you’re faced with a difference challenge; proving yourself on a daily basis in Real Madrid’s star-studded team. Is that pressure on another level?
It really is a great experience! Even in training – I’m pushed on a daily basis to achieve the kind of levels that other clubs only see at the weekend in the championship.
Is it not therefore more difficult for you to be stuck at home watching on TV when Germany are playing?
The way I see it, the only way I can prove myself at the moment is by playing well for Real Madrid. At the end of every day, I have to be satisfied as a sportsman that I have done my utmost to get back in the starting XI, and I think that I’m certainly doing that at the moment.
Drenthe press conference
Royston Drenthe talked about his team-mates and the up-coming season in a press conference held after the training session.
What’s your opinion on Sneijder’s situation?
He’s a good footballer and a nice guy. It’s a decision from the Club and I can’t comment on that. He’s training well, but the squad can’t do anything about his situation.
At the end of last season many people thought you were going to leave Real Madrid but finally you remain in the squad…
It’s normal to talk about releasing players at the end of each season, but I always believed I would stay here. I signed a five-year contract and I want to have much success here. I’m working hard, as the rest of my team-mates.
What’s your role in the team this season?
The coach has talked to me and he is happy about my performance. There are many quality players and there will be tough competitors for each spot in the line-up, but I’m willing to fight for one of them.
This will be your third season at the Club. Is your period of adaptation over?
I feel at home in the country, in the city and at the Club. There are many new players and I’m happy with them too.
What advice could you give to Cristiano Ronaldo to ease his adaptation?
Cristiano is very professional and he has no need for advice. I don’t think he’s having any problems. You always need some time to adapt to a new team, but all the new signings feel fine.
How’s Sneijder getting on?
Naturally, he isn’t happy, but I can’t talk about that. He’s my friend.
Does the squad want Sneijder to stay?
We don’t talk about that. It’s a difficult situation for everyone.
Why does Real Madrid need someone like Wesley Sneijder?
The difference between good teams and great teams, more often than less, are such players.
The answer to the question raised here is quite simple. Every successful team in the past has had such a player – a mid-field player with a lot of potential to be creative, productive and stable and with the capability to score goals from set-pieces or from distance. The most recent example would be that of Xavi Hernández and his influence on the Barcelona of last season which won all the competitions that it participated in playing a total of 54 games – only Daniel Alves, Barça’s only Right-Back, played as many games as he did – and scoring 10 times in the process. If such a complete team as that of ‘Dream Team’ Barcelona of last season relies on such a player so much, it must be pretty obvious as to how important such a player is to a great side. Xavi played a very similar role for Spain in Euro 2008 which La Furia Roja won and was even nominated as the tournament’s best player. Enough said already, there are several more examples like that of Paul Scholes (for Manchester United), Steven Gerrard (for Liverpool), Frank Lampard (for Chelsea), Andrea Pirlo (for AC Milan) and even players like Deco (during his stint at Porto) who have brought more success than failure to their respective teams by playing the all important role in center of the mid-field.
It would be fair to say that the difference between good teams and great teams, more often than less, are such players. Real Madrid themselves proved it for a fact last season through a few dismal performances when they lost all their innovative central midfield players through either an injury lay-off or by a poor coaching decision, think Rafael van der Vaart, or because of a player-coach quarrel, think José María Gutiérrez Hernández ‘Guti’. There was no one to create opportunities for the strikers and hence had the obligation to rely on the penetrative dribbling skills of Arjen Robben and even on the ability of a certain Gonzalo Gerardo Higuaín to create goals out of almost nothing. But it is not something that works against every single team and every single time, is it? It worked pretty well against the bottom 14 teams in La Liga and even got the necessary three points, only at home though, against the likes of Atlético Madrid, Villareal and Valencia. But it was not to be the case against the only team to be placed above the Merengues last season – the mighty Catalonians – who creamed past Real in Madrid handing them a humiliating 6-2 win after which it really did not matter whether Real had the creative mind in mid-field or not. It was a lesson well learnt. It called for reinforcements.
Reinforcements have now arrived. Presidential elect Florentino Perez came in and has changed almost the entire squad, splashing in astronomical sums, bringing in stars, Galacticos as the press would call it, like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Karim Benzema and Xabi Alonso from a few of the best teams in Europe. He has also brought in a few other bright prospects like Esteban Granero, Raul Albiol and Alvaro Arbeloa. This surely brings in a lot of creativity – it is fair to say so because all the major signings are established stars of football – but is there is a subtle difference between creativity on other parts of the field and creativity in mid-field. Surely the likes of Xabi Alonso and Granero do bring in the creativity in mid-field along with already existing players like Guti. And it is an undeniable fact that Guti, Granero and Sneijder can be put in the same basket as the other creative mid-fielders of this world. But does that make Sneijder dispensable?
Post-match comments
Manuel Pellegrini was happy with his team’s victory in the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy. The coach believes the preseason has been very positive. Granero, Ronaldo and Alonso were delighted with the team’s victory against Rosenborg. Ruud van Nistelrooy made his return against Rosenborg. The player was moved by the affection the fans showed him and hopes to have a good year.
Pellegrini:
Cristiano Ronaldo needs a little time to adapt to his new team’s style. Every player on the squad is working hard to be fit and play well. Cristiano has experienced a change in style and now lives in a different country. He needs a little more time unlike those who already know La Liga.
The preseason has been very positive and we’ve managed to prepare the squad well, allowing every man to play more or less the same time. The team is solid in defence and has potential in attack. We keep possession more on our opponent’s half of the pitch, allowing us to showcase our technical differences.
This squad is complete. It gives us alternatives to try out different things. We still have to polish some aspects of our game, but I’m not worried about that. I wish we could keep up scoring four goals in one match with certain irregularities in attack, like we did today.
Granero:
The Santiago Bernabeu crowd always gives a warm welcome to youth teamers and that’s what heppened to me tonight. We played well and scored several goals. We are very happy. Rosenborg allowed us to showcase our game more at different points in the match. We must think about our performance and ourselves. We are in good form.
Real Madrid 4-0 Rosenborg
Everything’s changed in very little time. The official presentation of the 2009/10 Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium was spectacular, with a showcase of great football, talent, excitement, order, discipline, hard work and solidarity. Real Madrid thrashed Rosenborg 4-0 and won the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy.
Before kick-off, the fans welcomed Garay, Granero, Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso, and also gave a heartfelt farewell to Michel Salgado, who will play for Blackburn Rovers the following season. Marta Dominguez, winner of the Gold Medal in the 3,000 metre race in the Athletics World Cup had the honour of kicking-off the match.
Real Madrid dominated from the start with flow and mobility. Their first chance came on the 7-minute mark from a shot by Cristiano Ronaldo. Four minutes later, Marcelo passed the ball between defenders to Benzema, who ran diagonally towards the goal from the left wing and scored from a crossed shot.
Pellegrini’s men clearly wanted to keep possession throughout the match. The wingers opened up the game while the strikers constantly swapped positions to despair Rosenberg’s defenders. Lass scored in the 25th minute with an amazing shot from outside the box, sending the ball through the top right corner of the goal. Just one minute later, Lass stole the ball and passed it to Ronaldo, who served it to Benzema. The Frenchman overtook his marker with step-overs and perfectly netted his second strike of the evening by grazing the near post.
Real Madrid didn’t relax in the second half. Granero and Pepe came on for Arbeloa and Xabi Alonso. Raul scored a brilliant header on the 54-minute mark from a corner kick served by Granero. A few minutes later, Pellegrini made Robben and Higuain take Benzema’s and the captain’s spots.
Ruud van Nistelrooy and Mahamadou Diarra made their long-awaited return in the 75th minute and received and incredible ovation from the stands. Real Madrid kept dominating the game with them on the pitch and eventually won the Bernabeu Trophy thanks to a 4-0 victory.
Lineups:
Real Madrid: Casillas; Arbeloa (Pepe, 45’); Marcelo (Drenthe, 70’); Garay; Albiol; Lass (Diarra, 75’); Xabi Alonso (Granero, 45’); Kaka (Van Nistelrooy, 75’); Cristiano Ronaldo (Guti, 67’); Raul (Robben, 58’); Benzema (Higuain, 58’).
Rosenborg: Jarstein; Lustig; Dorsan; Annan; Strand; Demidov ( Savolainen, 76’); Stadsgard; Iversen; Skjelbred; Sapara (Lago, 57’); Prica.
Goals:
1-0, 11’: Benzema
2-0, 25’: Lass
3-0, 26’: Benzema
4-0, 54’: Raul
Referee: Rubinos Perez.
Notes: Thirty-first edition of the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy. Homage was paid to Michel Salgado and Marta Dominguez had the honour of kicking-off the match.
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Just another Madridista
Cristiano Ronaldo to El Pais
Cristiano Ronaldo talked in an interview to El Pais Semanal about the pressure he’s gone through since he was a child and about his new era at Real Madrid.
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August 31, 2009 | Categories: Comments | Tags: Cristiano Ronaldo | 8 Comments »