Christoph Metzelder gave the first press conference following the team’s return from its successful North American tour.

You haven’t been working out wiith your team-mates. How do you feel?
I have strained my adductor muscles and that’s why I did specific workouts today. It isn’t serious.

Juande Ramos didn’t count on you, but you are a starter with Pellegrini. Your life seems to have changed much in just two months…
I think it has. We all know it is still too soon, but we must use the preseason to prepare ourselves well for the long season ahead. I feel fine and I am happy with my current personal situation.

How are Van Nistelrooy and Diarra doing?
We are all happy about their return. We all want to play and I think it’s natural for them to feel excited after sustaining injuries for eight months.

Have you coincided with Cristiano in the gym today? How is he doing?
I’m no doctor, but he looked good. He isn’t sick with swine flu and he’s been able to train normally. I think he will very probably rejoin the squad this week.

What did you think of the North American tour?
It was a tough trip that helped us improve. We promoted football, so we are happy with the tour.

Is the team’s main objective to win the three titles this season?
This club must always win. We know it will be hard because there are many quality teams in Europe. I think we have improved considerably and our goal is always to win.

Are Pellegrini’s methods very different to Schuster’s or Juande’s?
Every coach has a particular style. He’s done a good job so far by having us attend double or triple sessions each day. The team is grateful for that. We are working very hard to be as fit as we possibly can at the start of the campaign.

Is it worth it to spend so much money on players like Cristiano Ronaldo?
Football has undergone a great change and become big business, especially when it comes down to players that make a difference. We footballers also have great social responsibility with our fans and people that haven’t been fortunate enough to earn what we earn.

Is this the best squad you’ve ever been a part of?
This squad has great quality. It isn’t normal to have men like Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo on the same team. We are proud of that.

Who will feel more pressure, Barcelona for having to win three titles again or Real Madrid for having made such great signings?
Both clubs have always felt great pressure. The situation hasn’t changed much. Team spirit, camaraderie and a good atmosphere rule over this squad.