Higuain to AS

Gonzalo Higuain talked to AS about the team’s preseason.

Have you already recovered from the North American tour?
I feel better now after resting and sleeping on Monday.

What did it mean for you to score those two goals in Washington?
It was a joy. Every forward likes to score goals, especially when there is so much competition in the team. I’m glad I made good use of the opportunity I was given and that the team reached a level close to what Pellegrini demands.

How was your meeting with Maradona at the airport?
It went fine. I didn’t know Argentina was flying to Russia, so when I arrived and saw them I felt very happy. I greeted the players and the coaching staff, and had the chance to meet Maradona and to talk to him.

Does it cross your mind to play for another national team other than Argentina?
No. I only think about playing for Argentina. I have said so many times and I don’t know why someone would say otherwise.

Haven’t you received a call from the French FA?
No, that was settled in the past. My greatest ambition is playing the World Cup for Argentina. It’s just on the road ahead and I hope to perform at a great level this campaign.

What did you think when Real Madrid signed Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Benzema?
I felt happy. We will have more competition in the team. They are some of the best players and I hope they will improve the squad.

There’s some confusion around Real Madrid’s tactical scheme. Is it a 4-2-2-2?
We move freely up front, occupying different positions each time, but bearing in mind we have to help the team defend. We are aware forwards are the first defenders and we must help each other.

And in offensive plays?
The idea is to move freely and combine with each other promptly, with no more than two touches on the ball. With quality players on board everything seems easier.

Are you in disadvantage because you were signed by previous president Ramon Calderon?
I’d rather not dwell on such comments. There’s nothing of the sorts going on. On the contrary, there was a very good base of players which were capable of winning two straight league titles. I’ll try and convince the coach that he can count on me. I’m excited about staying at the Club with this interesting project. It has won much admiration worldwide and I hope it will turn out for the best at the end of the season.

What did you know about Florentino Perez?
I was just thirteen when he first arrived at the Club in 2000. He first signed Figo, then Zidane, Ronaldo… I already regarded Real Madrid as an example for the other clubs. I knew the President was able to achieve those things and he has done it again this year forming a top-class squad.

What have you learned from Raul?
I’m still learning from him. Despite breaking every record and winning every competition, his hunger for titles remains the same as the first day. He’s admirable.

Now that you’ve seen him up close, what would you highlight about Cristiano Ronaldo?
What can I say, he has won the Ballon d’Or… He’s a great player and we’re all helping him to be successful at the Club. And he’s quite a normal guy.

Has he startled you?
No, because I didn’t expect him to be otherwise. He’s just another team-mate. On the pitch his best quality is to overtake opponents. He’s almost unstoppable in one-on-ones.

Is Raul your main rival for a spot in the line-up?
No, we all fight for the same spots. We shouldn’t forget about Van Nistelrooy and Negredo either.