Gabriel Heinze and Fernando Morientes returned to the Santiago Bernabeu with their new team and sat down with the press alongside their coach Didier Deschamps.

What does it mean to you to play once again at your former stadium?
Heinze: It’s a joy because we had great moments here. The best thing is to be again with the people you spent so much time with. And when we play at the stadium many memories will come to our minds, but we’ll stay focused on the match.
Morientes: I already know that feeling. I’ve gone through all those moments in the past and it’s still something special, but it’s no more than an anecdote.

Do you know how to put an end to Real Madrid’s starting run?
Deschamps: It’s always difficult to play here. Real Madrid is a very strong side, with great players and much talent. They score easily and it will be paramount to defend well amongst other things because we won’t have any chances otherwise. We have to be focused because any error against these players can cost you dearly.

Do you feel any resentment despite being a special moment?
H: Not at all. I don’t have any reasons for that. I’ll just remember the good moments at the Club.

What do you think about Benzema’s start to the season?
D: He’s a young quality player. He’ll get even better at Real Madrid. He’s very skilful in front of the opponent’s goal and he’s got everything a striker needs. He has had a brilliant start.

Years go by and Raul keeps being a starter…
M: I’m not objective, but he’s been a top-class player for many years and he has proved that he belongs to this team and that he can help it a lot. He keeps adding his charisma, quality and talent. He makes things easier for the coach.

Would you prefer it if Ronaldo doesn’t play down your wing?
H: I’m not sure if I’m going to play yet, but we should only think about our game.

How would you define Morientes?
D: He’s similar to Benzema, although the latter is younger. Fernando has lots of experience and he is used to playing at a top level. He has scored goals anywhere he’s gone. He’s an important player for Olympique Marseille on and off the pitch.

Casillas, alongside other goalkeepers, has complained about the new ball. Are you worried about Cristiano Ronaldo’s free-kicks?
D: It’s always difficult to save the ball when he kicks it. He is very dangerous. I think the ball makes the game more exciting and gives the chance of seeing more goals scored. Goalies will never be happy.

Will you use the same tactical scheme after last week’s defeat?
D: The tactical scheme is not a problem. We have to defend as one, ever more so against such a big team as Real Madrid.

What’s the secret to overtaking Real Madrid?
M: There’s no secret to winning here. We’ll just have to hope that they don’t have their day and that we can take advantage of it. We’ll have to give 100%.