Playing with discomfort
“The team needed players today. Every player who took part in the match did so in a spectacular way. Congratulations to Valdepeñas, who had a brilliant game on his debut. We’re happy for him. Hopefully the young players from the academy will continue to get many more opportunities, as it’s always nice to see them play for Real Madrid and make their debut. It’s a dream for them too and we’re going to support them.”
“As captain, I also have the responsibility of being the first to take charge when things aren’t going well. You have to take responsibility. And today was a great game to change that dynamic.”
Advice to Valdepeñas
“It’s simple, or it seems simple, but enjoy it. Playing for Real Madrid is something unique, something you dream of. All young people around the world want to play for this club. Before the game, I told him to enjoy it, to appreciate what it means to play for Real Madrid. He did spectacularly well, he appreciated it, he defended the badge and we’re very happy for him.”