League (Day 21): Mourinho reactions

José Mourinho

"We lost three points that we didn't deserve to lose, but based on the way the opponent played, they also deserved a positive outcome. The referee did a great job. My players couldn't have played out of this world based on the conditions".

"We didn't concede goals against Atletico, Sevilla or Mallorca. The team is playing well. One goal isn't reason to get dramatic, but we usually need to score. We had our chances. Benzema, Cristiano... But we didn't take care of business. Give credit to the opponent as well. I would rather lose like this. The opponent worked very hard for this outcome; my team did not give the match away".

"This is our second defeat in La Liga and we are in a very difficult situation with respect to the first place team. I don't like to lose when you give the match away by not playing, not fighting or not being committed or focused. That is not the case. Tonight the other team played its heart out and had a week to prepare for the match. They played to the brink. Tomorrow is a new day. There will be another match and we will be there".

"Osasuna are a tough team and the crowd was fantastic. I don't think many teams win here. It's a small venue where you really feel the heat, and Osasuna is a defensive team that also plays well in attack. We had scoring chances, but we didn't finish. It is always a lot harder on small fields like this and when the opponent scores first. Congratulations to Osasuna".

"In Spain it is quite common to see balls disappear or two to be thrown onto the pitch so that the referee must stop the game. The fans new things were tough from a psychological standpoint, but I am not mad. My players did everything they could until the end, which is why I am not concerned. I have nothing negative to say about my team".

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League (Day 21): Casillas reactions

The captain and Real Madrid goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, admitted that after the defeat against Osasuna (1-0) in the "Reyno de Navarra" which makes the whites seven points behind Barcelona, is a "setback" but remains confident his peers.

Iker Casillas 

"It's an important difference, but salvageable. It is clear that we have taken a step backwards, but that does not mean all is lost. We will keep working, trying to get the games ahead, and waiting for a lost of Barcelona that allows us to approach" said the Real Madrid goalkeeper.

So, after the defeat he thinks in the comeback plan: "We will keep working and trying to win games so that the difference in the standings with Barcelona was reduced" said the Real Madrid captain.

Regarding the game against Osasuna, Iker Casillas explained how he saw the match: "We have come to the rival goal frequently and had several clear chances. But sometimes the ball does not want to go in and whatever you do, does not do it".

Spanish League: Day 21

OSASUNA 1 - REAL MADRID 0

Real Madrid were unable to bring January to a close with a win. A single goal by Camuñas on 62’ handed the Whites their second defeat on the season, but there is no time to lament as the team is one step away from its first "Copa del Rey" final in seven years. The Bernabeu welcomes Sevilla on Wednesday.

Osasuna took to the pitch in high gear and never gave Real Madrid any breathing room. With a tremendous physical effort, the "Reds" kept Real off-balance and uncomfortable. Pandiani nearly scored the first goal of the night but his header sailed over Casillas’ crossbar. Real’s best chance came on 34’, but Benzema’s shot was cleared by Ricardo. Osasuna took their foot off the gas as the first half wound down and the Whites managed to combine and create chances. Cristiano could have given Real the lead on 41’ but the keeper made another outstanding save.

Not much changed after the restart with Osasuna pouring on the pressure on the final third of the pitch. Spurred on by the home crowd, the hosts grew more confident and saw their effort rewarded on 62’. Aranda found Camuñas between two Madridista defenders and the Madrid native beat Casillas with a shot off the post. Real Madrid had over half an hour to respond and turn things around.

Mourinho made a triple change with Kaka, Xabi Alonso and Adebayor coming off the bench in search of much needed offense. Real Madrid controlled possession of the ball and created plenty of chances, but none found the back of the net. Benzema came close to equalizing on 73’ but his header was off target. Adebayor also had a try but Ricardo had little trouble trapping the header. Minutes ticked off, the equalizer was nowhere to be found and Osasuna held on for the 1-0 win.

It's dramatic that a simple catarrh of Xabi Alonso leave the team lost for an hour. The first pass of the transition and the long play that expands and stretches the field for Real Madrid is out of reach to Khedira and Lass. Half an hour was not enough to avoid catastrophe, but the team was another, larger and more dominant with him. Real need to photocopy him in the summer market.

Madrid takes refuge in arithmetic. But it is difficult a second edition of that glorious Capello comeback. In the privacy team does not find where the Barcelona will lost eight points. The body does not give background for this race and seems tha team is passing to the short sprints with the appearance of consolation: Champions and Spanish Cup.

Summary

Stadium: Reyno de Navarra
Attendance: 17,131
Goals: 1-0. Min 62, Camuñas.

Mahamadou Diarra transfered to AS Monaco

The midfielder Mahamadou Diarra has signed a contract that will bind to the end of this season with AS Monaco. French team reached an agreement with Real Madrid for transfer, this Thursday.

Mahamadou Diarra

The midfielder, 29, faces a new journey "very happy" with the illusion of "to remain competitive" and "to continue playing football" after not having had too many opportunities in recent seasons at the club.

"I know that my arrival may be good for the team and colleagues and I hope that the ASMonaco can get the targets of the season" said the footballer after signing the contract, hoping to help the club achieve salvation because AS Monaco is second last.

After four and a half seasons at Real Madrid, Diarra will now have a new destination, but will remain the dorsal ''6'' on his back. In the beginning he comes with the confidence of his new coach who has been defined him as "a leader of men".

"The group needed a guy like him, with great personality and experience. We have great hopes in him and he will be a good reference for the younger ones" praised Laurent Banide.

Official Announcement (realmadrid.com):
Real Madrid C. F. and Monaco FC have reached a deal for the transfer of Mahamadou Diarra. It is contingent upon the player passing a medical checkup as well as the contract signed with his new club.

Interview: Emmanuel Adebayor

Emmanuel Adebayor

How much does it mean to you to join Real Madrid?
To be honest, it’s like a dream come true. I was born in Africa and started playing football there, and I never dreamed I could play for Real Madrid. I dreamed I could end up playing in Europe, and I did, playing for Metz, Monaco, Manchester City… And now I’m at the biggest club in the world, so this is a dream come true. I’m very happy and very grateful.

What made you swap Manchester City for Real Madrid?
I had a tough season after the attack on my national team’s bus. This traumatized me a little bit because it wasn’t an easy experience. For a few minutes I was between life and death. It was difficult for me to finish the season in good shape. The manager has a view of football for the present campaign that doesn’t involve me anymore, and Real Madrid came for me. I can’t ask for more than that. I wasn’t playing for Manchester City and said to myself I had to come here. It was a difficult time for me, but I felt more relaxed when I signed my contract. I am very happy and look forward to playing for Real Madrid.

You must be happy to have a truly new year start for you in 2011 after what happened in 2010.
Of course. 2010 had a terrible start for me due to the terrorist attack and now I’ve got a 2011 contract with Real Madrid and I’m sitting at the Santiago Bernabeu, so I can just say I am very happy and very grateful. This year has had a great start for me and I hope it ends well too. I wish we win many trophies and that I score successful goals and achieve many successful things. That’s what I came here for. Don’t get me wrong, I know it’s not going to be easy, but I will work hard and do everything it takes to be part of the history of Real Madrid.

How much of a factor was Mourinho in this transfer? Are you looking forward to working with him?
I had a chance to play against him when he managed Chelsea and I was at Arsenal. I am very good friends with many African players, like Eto’o and Drogba, and whenever I talk with them about Mourinho they say he is a great manager and that I’ll enjoy working with him. They said I had to definitely say yes if I ever got the chance, that I shouldn’t even doubt it. I am very happy because he made great efforts to get me into this club and the most important thing for me right now is not to disappoint him or the club. I know it wasn’t just him who brought me here; lots of other people were behind this as well and gave him the chance to bring me here. I want to make them all happy and to score many goals and enjoy myself on the pitch.

Have you had a chance to speak to Benzema or Lass?
I called Benzema last night, but his phone was off, so he was probably on the plane after the game. I had a chance to speak with Lass before the game and he welcomed me and expressed his delight for having me here. He is a very good friend of mine because we played together at Arsenal just for a few months, but we’ve kept in touch until now. I guess I have some family here. I played against Ronaldo when he was in Manchester. I’m at a big club where I know many players, and I know they will do everything they can to help me and to make me feel comfortable and safe.

Have you been watching much Spanish football on TV?
Of course. Most of the games in England take place between noon and 15:00, so I had a chance to finish early and watch Real Madrid and Barcelona games in the evening. The Spanish league and the Premiership are very different. The latter is, without a doubt, more physical, and La Liga is more technical and… ‘Intelligent’ isn’t the right word, but they have more players that know how to deal with the ball. I’ve played with David Silva, who is a great Spanish player. The difference is big, but I’m a footballer and I have to adapt to the Spanish league, hopefully as quickly as possible.

The new Real Madrid player, Emmanuel Adebayor has traveled to Manchester to collect his belongings and make the final move to the capital of Spain. The Togolese has not been able to train with his new teammates and could train this afternoon, alone in Valdebebas Sports City. Adebayor will try to do everything possible to play Sunday in the "Reyno de Navarra" against Osasuna but his presence is unclear because the Togolese played his lastgame for Manchester City last December 1.

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Cup Semifinals (1st Leg): Albiol, Ramos & Carvalho reactions

RAUL ALBIOL: “I REALLY THINK BALL DIDN'T GO IN”

The ‘ghost goal’ key player explained from his point of view the move: "The goal clearance was a very fast play. I threw myself on the ground and saw the ball on the goal-line. I don't believe it went in. It all happened very fast, which leaves room for doubt, but I really think it didn't go in".

About the game and the chances of reaching the final: "I am happy with the victory. We've taken an important step, but we still have to play another 90 minutes and Sevilla are a complicated opponent. We enjoyed ourselves tonight. We think about the possibility of reaching the final".

Raúl Albiol

SERGIO RAMOS: “WE EARNED A VERY IMPORTANT VICTORY” 

Sergio Ramos was very angry with the non-sporting incidents that happened during the match: “If something was wrong at the match, it was the hit to Casillas with a bottle. I'm happy for people who have tried to stop the insults against me. Those are acts that litter the game. It is not the first time this happens, we hope will be the last”.

The White defense was very pleased with the match made by Real Madrid and the result so beneficial: "We earned a very important victory in a complicated match. We concentrated hard and controlled the game. Sevilla tried to set their own pace to the clash but we managed to make them feel uncomfortable". "We earned a good result, but the tie hasn't been decided yet. We have yet to play the return leg at the Bernabeu and we will have to watch out for Sevilla because they can complicate things for us".

About Karim Benzema: "Benzema's goal wasn't a great surprise to us because we all know he is a great player. He has great quality and we hope he continues to score goals to help the team win more games".

RICARDO CARVALHO: "WE WANT TO PLAY THE FINAL”

The veteran Portuguese defender said that Real Madrid made a big away game, which is very important in two-legged ties: "We played well and we won. That's what matters, especially away from home". "We want to play the final, but we have to wait for that. There is still one game left for us to play at our stadium. That's where we'll have to seal our pass".

About the ‘ghost goal’: "It all happened very fast and I don't actually know if the ball went in or not. If I was pressed to choose, I'd say it didn't completely go over the line".

Cup Semifinals (1st Leg): Iker Casillas reactions

The match ended in the Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium with a bottle throw to Iker Casillas who was shot after a bottle brushed his head before. The goalkeeper of Real Madrid ended up lying on the pitch, but eventually recovered.

A ball boy took the bottle and ran to hide, with the complaints of the components of the bench at Real Madrid. Goalkeeper said after the match: "A vandal who is always here threw me a bottle. I think this does not detract from a splendid crowd which comes always to help Sevilla as much as possible. He was a stupid who can create a problem to the good fans" said Casillas.

"I'm not saying anything, but if the TV cameras have captured it, will be taken legal actions" said the Real Madrid player who received two shots. The first did not hit him, but the second fell on his head.

About the match, Casillas preferred to appear cautious despite victory: "The tie is not decided. It is an optimal result because we have not conceded a goal and scored one. We should not relax because Sevilla is very good and has important players" he added.

Finally, the Real Madrid captain referred to the 'ghost goal' by Luis Fabiano which was not granted by the referee at the end of the first part: "The ball almost enters, but not entered. If it has not entered, it is clear" Casillas concluded.

Cup Semifinals (1st Leg): Cristiano Ronaldo reactions

CRISTIANO RONALDO: "FACE PAINTING MOTIVATES US A LOT"

Cristiano Ronaldo

How was the match?

We knew it would be complicated, but the team has been good and we scored a goal. Now we play at home and have a good lead, but not definitive.

Was a nice game?
There have been many fouls, long stopped. I am sure the fans did not like the match. I do not like it, was ugly. The arbitration was good.

What about the video that Sevilla made in Portuguese language?
Very good, it motivated us a lot.

Have you seen the bottles throw at Casillas?
I have not seen that. Has he been assaulted? Well I think it is wrong. It's a shame.

Is the tie was resolved with the 0-1?
We could score more than one goal, I could do it, but a 0-1 result is fine too. They should continue to face painting things because it motivates us a lot.

What about Adebayor?
I like, I think he is a very good player.

It seems more likely that the final will be Real Madrid-Barça. Do you have desire for revenge?
Certainly, it is going to be Real Madrid-Barcelona. We will win at home and go to the final. The two best teams in Spain have to be in the final. We're not going to want revenge, it will be nice.

Spanish Cup: Semifinals (1st Leg)

SEVILLA 0 - REAL MADRID 1

The match filled a video library; from the paintings of war with the stimulating effect on the eve to the launch of bottles against Casillas at the end, the fabulous play of the goal from Benzema and the most controversy action, the ‘ghost goal’ of Luis Fabiano. But the final assembly portrayed that Real Madrid was better, with more football and poise, and Sevilla drew little benefit from its warrior burning.

Real Madrid defeated Sevilla 0-1

Mourinho lined up Lass instead of Di Maria to level his team's chances against Sevilla's physical strength in midfield. Real Madrid kept Zokora and Romaric in check, and smothered Kanoute. Sevilla had the initiative at the start, but the Madridistas soon pulled rank and started to control the game.

And on 17 minutes appeared Benzema who knows no winter or summer. Play with the same emotion, little, in Ecuador and at the North Pole. And that frozen blood helps him in games like yesterday, in which the public really softens the mood of all but not his. His goal came out of nowhere, a single one-two with Özil in the right wing. The Frenchman raced, eliminated Alexis with a braking, and dribbled Escudé to finish with a left shot. That wonder signed with Adebayor resting at a hotel in Madrid unhooked Sevilla fans, the beginning of the end.

Sevilla started to feel the pressure of losing the match and played a hasty game. Mourinho's men showcased impeccable tactical discipline and hardly suffered in defense. The two midfielders band of Sevilla, Navas and Perotti, did not appear. The first is a world away from his best version. Arbeloa took two plays to take the measure and let him in nothing. Argentina's player never surpassed Sergio Ramos, unbeatable yesterday as lateral. Ramos felt at home. Luis Fabiano entered and left the match and Kanoute was rarely there.

Then, when Real Madrid was trying to sleep the match, during injury time, Luis Fabiano defeated Casillas and shot on target, but the ball was cleared in extremis by Albiol just on the goal-line (46'). The referee decided not to allow the strike despite Sevillas' protests. Truth be told, analyzing the shot from every angle does not help to clear if the ball went in or not.

Thanks to the ‘ghost goal’ Sevilla reminded the previous stimulus and the game had more spines and fewer solutions. They hit more than it suited them and a Real Madrid wiser used the open spaces left by the locals, especially since the entry of Di Maria and Marcelo, for lethal counterattacks through Carvalho (from a header) and Cristiano Ronaldo. The latter defeated Palop in a one-on-one, but the ball stayed behind him as he moved forward. Then, Özil was a little too confident as he tried to kick it into the goal because Alexis had enough time to clear his shot practically on the goal-line (79').

Sadly, as soon as the match ended, someone from the crowd threw a plastic bottle on the pitch and hit Casillas. The goalkeeper fell on the ground and had to be attended. Fortunately, nothing serious happened, but this should not go unpunished. It was a disgraceful end to a good match.

Summary

Stadium: Sánchez Pizjuán
Attendance: 40,000
Goals: 0-1, M.17: Benzema.

Aitor Karanka: "Sevilla is heating up the match"

Aitor Karanka

Aitor Karanka explained why he replaced Mourinho in the news conference before the match of Sevilla. He was clear; the order is to cool the atmosphere because the white club has not liked anything the announcement by the Sevilla, where there are multiple players with war paint, and a phrase in Portuguese, dedicated to Mourinho: "The coach does not want to participate what is being said. Nobody likes to be told so many things. He does not like being punished for out to defend the club. He wants to search normalcy and club has decided I talk to you. We do not want to feed more what is arriving from Sevilla. Here, anything that says the coach serves to punish him and, if you look objectively, are objective things".

There is outrage among the coaching staff at Real Madrid: "Sevilla has warmed up the game. The TV spot with war face painting and a comment in Portuguese is to heat the meeting. The Committees will have to see if it is punishable or not, as has been done with Mourinho .We are in the semis and just want to play a game. We look forward to reach the final".

Players will also envelop coach, as recognized Karanka: "The teamplate knows the coach it has and if anything we have, is that we are all stuck in the same boat. We are supporting Mourinho. We know it will be a tough match. It is a semifinal and Sevilla have caught the measure to this competition, but we will not go to a war".

The assistant coach said that Mourinho is happy in Madrid and has fully charged batteries: "I'm with him every day and every day I see him more comfortable, wanting to win and very excited to reach Cup final. He's delighted to be here and get the targets".

About a possible ban on Valdano to keep out the dressing room, he was clear: "I cannot answer. If there is anyone who cannot ban Valdano, it is me. What we all are trying is that the relationship with the club was good and the entire club rowing in the same direction".

Believes that there are no players who are tired: "When you make a template, you think you're going to use all of them, but there have been long and untimely injuries. The lack of time to train led to seek proper training and it has been working. At no time team is feeling tired and I'm sure we'll play all the competitions until the end and whoever plays, will do well"

Preview: Sevilla vs Real Madrid (Spanish Cup)

The days before the meeting have been a war of words and today's match will be hot on the pitch. Sevilla wants to make clear that comes to the date as a favorite, both for its current status as title holder, and the fact that, despite being far from the expected level, is listed clearly on the rise since the start of the new year.

In addition the Sevilla still remembers the controversial semifinal of the 2003-04 season, when Jorge Valdano down to the referee locker room at halftime in a playoff that whites won with more difficulty.

Sevilla vs Real Madrid 2010 (2-1)

For its part, Real Madrid is not showing its best play in recent weeks. Not surprisingly, on Sunday team suffered a lot to keep their unbeaten status in the Santiago Bernabeu. It was able to overcome Mallorca only by the minimum.

Under these conditions, to leave the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium alive, Real Madrid should try to cool the mood of Sevilla and that is only possible if the ball is in feet of the white team. Xabi Alonso has to appear to tune and move the ball from side to side. Of his performance depends a lot on target for Real Madrid tonight. The worst thing would be that team rolled out with a succession of moves in their own area. Xabi, supported by Khedira and Marcelo in the midfield and Özil ahead, has to absorb the thrust of Sevilla.

Luis Fabiano and Kanoute are going well at the air. Kanoute goes flying into the far corner and win the jumps with ease. Albiol and Carvalho must be very attentive to bother them on the jump and the second play they can generate. Besides, Casillas should be awake and courageous in the ball crossed from the band and distribute wisely when he has the ball in his hands.

Arbeloa and Ramos cannot have distractions; have to measure their movements to avoid giving the band at Capel and Navas. The two players of Sevilla manufacture goal plays from their bands for completion in the area. If Ramos loses the site without benefit runs, it would not recommend to the Real Madrid. In the other side, Navas is going to get tested Arbeloa again and again. Marcelo has to support him in the zone.

Finally, it will be a great game and a great semifinal, no doubt. Maybe we'll see some football and some rugby, but at this stage of the competition ... There is only one possibility, to win.

Emmanuel Adebayor is the Real Madrid's '9'

Few players of 26 years may have a sports and vital file so studded such as Emmanuel Adebayor (Lomé, Togo, 26 February 1984). With 17 years he played in the Metz and in January last year, announced the end of his international playing career. It occurred after save his life during an armed attack to the bus of the Togo national team. A miracle. They played an African Cup match in Angola.

"We were just players who wanted to play a game" said Adebayor. Possibly, the same reason that leads him to leave Manchester City to play for Real Madrid. In the City he played very little.

The 'Citizens' have not enjoyed the Adebayor that was a star of European football in the teamplate of Arsenal. Manchester City paid 30 million euros in 2009 for a player who two seasons earlier, scored 30 goals in the shirt of the Gunners. In the Emirates, under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger and joined by talented players like Cesc, Van Persie and Walcott, became proof of the clinical eye of his mentor, who pulled him out of Monaco –he was part of his staff when French team played the Champions League final against Mourinho's Porto- by just 3.5 million euros.

In London, Adebayor not only left samples of their quality. Also began to glimpse a volcanic nature that Arsenal always put in the background, after his goals (46 in 104 games). Mourinho knows him because he lived in first person a Carling Cup final in which 'Manu' was sent off for attacking Frank Lampard. The Portuguese coach was not in Chelsea when Adebayor hit his partner Bendtner in a match against Tottenham (Carling - January 2008), nor when he was sent off for getting involved with Alvaro Arbeloa (2008-09). Neither in his latest trouble, again with a partner, Kolo Toure, a few weeks ago.

His quality always redeemed him. Therefore, at the end of that season 08-09, Barcelona was interested in him. Spanish team could not compete with petrodollars from the City in which he arrived as a great star before a transfer 10 times more than his purchase by the Arsenal. In his first game against his former team, he was accused of kicking Van Persie’s face, and Adebayor, who left London angry, ran through the field to celebrate a goal against the noses of his former supporters.

His numbers were good until the incident of the African Nations Cup. After that, he took his time before returning to England. Carlos Tevez took the striker position to become the leader of the 'Citizens' and the checkbook of Sheikh Al Mansour did the rest: in summer Balotelli arrived at Manchester City; a few days ago Dzeko (30 million head).

Adebayor is young, but he knows when it's time to go. Real Madrid is a great opportunity to become, first and foremost a footballer.

The official Announcement: "Real Madrid C. F. and Manchester City FC have reached a deal that will see Emmanuel Adebayor play on loan for the former club. The player will remain at Real Madrid until the end of the current season, at which point the Club hold a unilateral option to purchase the player" (realmadrid.com)

Real Madrid could sign Kun Aguero this summer

According to information published in a relevant sports radio program in Spain, Real Madrid would be willing to pay the contract buyout clause of the Argentine player who plays for Atletico, next June. The white club will pay 45 million euros as is stipulated in the player's contract after the recent renovation with Atletico Madrid. 

Kun Aguero

The Argentine player would be willing to leave the team following a poor season and because of the probable sale of Diego Forlan in the summer. The absence of a competitive and consolidated project can help to the out of the red-white star as happened with Fernando Torres.

Atletico was forced to reduce the contract buyout a few months ago to sell the player without damaging the image of club’s managers. It would show as a purchase of other equipment and not as a sale of Atletico. The fact is that, as Atletico’s president (Enrique Cerezo) said: "If we sell to Kun Aguero, fans will burn us the stadium".

On other hand, the program indicated that if the club chaired by Florentino Perez manages to sell the Frenchman Karim Benzema, also will pay Fernando Llorente’s buyout clause, the international Bilbao’s striker.

We must wait for summer to confirm the report. Or not?

The other match. Mourinho vs Valdano

Mou does not want the presence of Valdano neither in locker rooms nor in Valdebebas. 

Mourinho and Valdano

Mourinho continues to put pressure on relations with Jorge Valdano. On Sunday, he threw a dart at Valdano saying: "I just reported to Florentino Perez and Jose Angel Sanchez" He has now gone further. Apparently he has prohibited that Jorge Valdano goes down to the locker room before and after games. It was a Valdano’s practice since being in the club. On Sunday some player saw him in the hallways, but not in the locker room.

Mourinho neither wants Valdano goes to Valdebebas training. The general director was just going to the Sports City at the start of the season and at peak times, but now the Portuguese has forbidden it. Pardeza, the manager, is moving to Valdebebas to know how the template is.

On this occasion Florentino Perez has a problem. Mourinho has told his players that if he stays in June, Valdano is the one that would leave the club. If Valdano does not leave, he will not stay in any case. It is a full-fledged defiance that Mourinho has thrown to the president and the president will have to resolve upon termination of the official competition.

Florentino supported the figure of the general director on 20 December: "Valdano represents the club's image as best as possible" That was not enough; the tension has increased and is a front to solve. Valdano said Wednesday that he had "zero problems with Mourinh". The Portuguese does not feel the same

League (Day 20): Mourinho reactions

Mourinho wanted to assess the match of Real Madrid in accordance with Mallorca. White coach emphasized the tactical command of the opposing team and noted the longer it took to prepare the meeting: "We earned an important and difficult victory against a well prepared opponent. Mallorca played with an intensity we couldn't have due to our exhaustion. They had all week to prepare for the match and could rest. You cannot compare the preparation both sides had. Mallorca also happens to be a good team with a good coach, and they are also organized. The important thing is we are currently in the Champions League Last 16, in second place in League, and in the Spanish Cup semifinals".

Jose Mourinho

Asked by the fatigue of the team he said: "Derbies against Atletico Madrid aren't friendlies and they are not easy to play, so my men feel physically and emotionally tired. The opponent's quality and the fact that we faced them in a Spanish Cup quarterfinal means both legs were difficult encounters. Nobody wanted to lose. Playing two derbies in one week took its toll on us".

And he justified his tactical decision and substitutions in the starting lineup of the meeting, according to the crucial match in Sevilla on Wednesday. "I decided to use a different lineup because we will play a very important game on Wednesday. I cannot replace all men and I know there are consequences to making changes on my starting lineup".

"My decisions were risky, but I allowed the midfielders who will play in Sevilla to rest tonight. Khedira is injured, but he will play on Wednesday. At least, I will have managed to have a physically fitter midfield on Wednesday. I wanted to avoid being in a difficult situation by half-time against Mallorca. The 0-0 score was good because we knew we were going to make changes to the lineup in the second half. The double substitution helped the team make an immediate improvement".

On the fans' support coach: "If the fans support the team it means they support its coach, because I am the team. I don't like, and I don't need, the support of individuals. I am grateful for it, but I don't need it. I need the fans to be with the team, and they are. I cannot expect them to be incredibly happy tonight, but it is very complicated to play nine games in January at a very high level. The team still has its limitations, but it continues to win, which is what really matters".

League (Day 20): Players reactions

SERGIO RAMOS: "I AM GLAD FOR BENZEMA”

Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos highlighted the importance of the three points earned against Real Mallorca over bad game shown: "We didn't play our best football, but we took three vital points at home, where we cannot afford to fail. The lineup changed tonight, but the coach knows his men and when to use a rotation system. It's been a long time since we last reached the Spanish Cup semifinals and we will try to reach the final".

Sergio Ramos showed his joy that the author of the winning goal against Real Mallorca is marked by the Frenchman Karim Benzema and said he needs the support of peers: "I am glad for Benzema. He needs our support. We hope that the goal will motivate him to continue to grow as a footballer, because I think he has a tremendous illusion". 

IKER CASILLAS “THE TEAM DIDN'T GIVE ITS BEST PERFORMANCE AGAINST MALLORCA” 

Iker Casillas recognizes Mallorca put white team in difficulties: "It's a good team and we all know that at the Bernabeu they coming to complicate us but I think we moved the ball well but we had some layoffs".

"I believe we've been doing well in January so far, save for our draw against Almeria. We've given excellent home performances, such as in our match against Villarreal, and away, like in our clash in Getafe. We have to play many games this month and it isn't easy to withstand having to perform every Wednesday and Sunday. Our opponents at the Bernabeu give 150%, but it's something we have to get used to. We try to do our best in every game".

"This is a new team, with a new coach and a very young squad; and it's been subjected to the highest demands from the very start. We have to be at the top, fighting to win three titles. I believe we are doing an excellent job in the Champions League and in the Copa, and playing rather well in La Liga".

"We look to protect Karim. He will make all the front pages and news reports tomorrow. We all appreciate him because he is a noble person who wouldn't even hurt a fly. We should all just talk about football. Benzema is another player on the squad and he scored a lovely goal tonight. It will do him a world of good. He should be left alone to do his job. A lot has been asked of him since he arrived. He is very young and has to take things slowly".

The match against Sevilla promises to be hard: "Our match against Sevilla will be difficult. Their fans are very supportive and put a lot of pressure on opponents. Sevilla are a very good team, but they aren't doing as well as people thought they would in La Liga. The semifinals will be very exciting. We have to try to score a goal in Sevilla".


MARCELO: “OUR MATCH IN SEVILLA WILL ALSO BE DIFFICULT”

Marcelo

Marcelo thinks the match against Mallorca is part of the past. The left defense is fully focused on Wednesday's semifinal against Sevilla: "We didn't play at a great level, but the most important thing is we took three points. Our match in Sevilla will also be difficult and we must now rest and concentrate on it. We will have to regard that game as a final in order to earn a good result".

About Karim Benzema: "We have a lot of faith in Benzema and we are very happy with his goal, which allowed us to win." 

RICARDO CARVALHO: "WHAT WE ALL WANT IS TO WIN GAMES”

"What we all want is to win games. We didn't play well tonight, but we won, which is what matters. We all concentrate hard to win our games. No Real Madrid player feels tired and I also think Mourinho is in good form. We must respect Sevilla on Wednesday. We will have to play at our usual level to win and reach the final".

"I am very happy for Benzema. His goal was important because it made him happy and gave us three points".

Spanish League: Day 20

REAL MADRID 1 - MALLORCA 0

Real Madrid goes low on gasoline. The rotations do not work and Mourinho acknowledges that the team is physically demanding hard hit after January: "We note the emotional and physical fatigue and the Cup competition in which we come later"

Cristiano Ronaldo, Di Maria, Özil, Xabi Alonso, Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Carvalho,Casillas ... The list of untouchables for Mou is so broad that there is little rest for the eight players who do not rotate. And when the Portuguese coach gives the alternative players like Kaka, Granero and Gago, the experiment is short as happened against Mallorca at the Bernabeu.

"I decided to change some players because we will play a big game on Wednesday in Sevilla and I know I cannot make eleven changes because the team is suffering" said Mourinho.

The coach used a rotation system, leaving Xabi Alonso and Ozil on the bench in favour of Gago, Kaka and Granero due to the exhaustion the Spanish Cup is inflicting on the team. The starting lineup logically suffered from the changes and didn't look comfortable on the pitch. Mallorca didn't experience much of a threat and even dared to venture in attack on occasion: Nsue hit one of the posts on the 13-minute mark. Real Madrid kept possession throughout most of the first half, but had no chances on goal.

Ozil and Alonso came on for Gago and Kaka in the second half and the team changed its attitude immediately. Ozil added his speed and vision to the team's game, while Alonso helped it keep possession longer and make faster counterattacks. Nevertheless, minutes still went by without any goals scored and the crowd started to seem nervous.

That's when Benzema pulled rank. He controlled the ball outside the box, stepped inside and, following a quick move to take aim, scored the winner (60'). As soon as this happened, Mourinho made Lass come on for Granero. Mallorca kept trying to score, leaving open spaces the Whites could easily use to counterattack.

Benzema scored the goal of the match

Cristiano Ronaldo nearly netted a second strike from a free-kick, but his shot was just off target. The Portuguese forward had a chance minutes later from a header, but he sent the ball to the crossbar. Webo and Nsue kept trying to score an equaliser for the visitors, and Benzema nearly scored again, but his shot was saved by keeper Aouate. Iker Casillas was also forced to make a decisive save to clear a shot by Webo just before the end.

Tirelessly and without changes, the performance of Real Madrid has been decreasing in recent games. The draw in Almeria and the victories by the minimum in the Cup derby and against Mallorca have denoted the Real Madrid's physical slump. Team has lost freshness.

And there is still the worst. First, the battle of Pizjuán on Wednesday, then another even tougher into enemy territory, the "Reyno de Navarra". Mourinho pressed to his men: the first final of the season and stay alive in the league are at stake. Almost nothing.

Summary 

Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu
Attendance: 75,000
Goals: 1-0, m.61: Benzema.

Preview: Real Madrid vs Mallorca

From now on, every game is related to the previous one and is connected to the next. While the hangover of the derby still not turned off , Real Madrid receives Mallorca which has spent the week preparing for the meeting. And the appointment to the host comes four days before the Cup semi-final in Sevilla, nothing less. Effort that will add to the above and that will connect with those who are to come, more terrible. To put it bluntly: if Madrid is not metered, will burst.

Under these conditions, the alignment of today will be very significant as it will reveal the coach's thinking about it. In beginning, anything suggests more fundamental changes that next; Benzema is expected to return to the eleven (now or ever), Gago will relieve the injured Khedira and the defense will reset by the return of Marcelo to the side. Just that. Di Maria and Özil, to quote the most exhausted and the most fragile (and poet) will continue to add minutes and efforts. No objection, except fear. If Mourinho does not move the bench against Real Mallorca at the Bernabeu, it is impossible to imagine that he will do it.

The position of the visitor became known at Laudrup press conference. To punctuate spaces should be reduced to the Madrid attackers, Mallorca should pressure Xabi Alonso and do all that for 90 minutes. And besides, playing without complexes. It is a complicated task for an expedition with nine players who have never set foot in the Bernabeu.

There will be recalled that Mallorca, three points of difference European places, is presented after being thrashed by Atletico (3-0). But the data could lead to false conclusions. In the first round, the team tied 0-0 with the Real Madrid and 1-1 in the Camp Nou which shows what rivals inspire Laudrup

Without De Guzman (suspended) and Marti (injured) Tejera and Brazilian Joao Victor will take command of Mallorca. The latter was recommended by Rivaldo to Serra Ferrer (Mallorca Geneal Manager) like Ratinho, starter by the absence of Cendrós.

One thing is certain: today there will be enthusiasm, talent and a few pairs of tired legs.

Legends: Francisco Gento

FRANCISCO GENTO

Paco Gento

Francisco Gento Lopez was born in Guarnizo, Cantabria, 21 October 1933. Son of a truck driver, left school at fourteen to help his father and take care of the cows they had on a small farm. As a child when he ran around Guarnizo, he dreamed of playing for Racing de Santander. Never thought his name would be a world football legend and he would be considered the best left midfielder of all time.

At that time he started playing football in the “Nueva Montaña” team, alternating with the athletic sport, where he purchased the speed that made him famous as a footballer. Shortly afterwards went to the “Astilleros”. In this team and with only fourteen years, scored nine times in a regional championship game, earning him a move to “Rayo Cantabria”. In 1953 amounted to Racing Santander, where his name became a national attraction. Alvaro Bustamante’s references, vice-president of Real Madrid who was born in the same province that Gento, served that season to sign for the white team for a period of five years. His early performances for the club were a disaster and a disappointment. Extremely fast and lacks a polished technique, raids ended, most of the time, outside the boundaries of the pitch, forgetting the ball that was left behind.

The arrival of Héctor Rial, a fine Argentine midfielder managed to temper the speed of Gento and make him profitable. Passes over 40 yards on the boot of the Cantabrian were finished in impressive gallops by the band in which he moved the ball a few yards and ran after him, overflowing with all that is put in front. Only stopped when he approached the line of lime which delimits the end of the field, then he took out his left leg and threw a measured center to the head of Di Stefano, Puskas or any other striker in that wonderful team.

Francisco Gento always noted for his impressive speed and prodigious dribbling that left sitting all his rivals. This made him the most dangerous left side of the moment. Not noted for his height, but became the world's fastest extreme. Nobody at the time had his speed. Also had a terrible and powerful shot on goal.

Honours

Francisco Gento's fame spreads far beyond Spanish. In Europe, Gento have been the only player in the world who played for fifteen consecutive years in the European Cup (Champions League), appearing in eight finals and achieving six titles, the last being perhaps the most emotional because he captained a young team, dubbed the "Ye-ye", composed by young Spanish players. This was the title that best taste left in Paco Gento.

Gento's track record  like player is really impressive. During the eighteen years he played for Real Madrid, Gento won: 6 European Cups, 12 League titles, 2 Spanish Cups and 1 Intercontinental Cup, among other awards.

He wore the Spanish jersey 44 times and has long held the record for games played with the national team. Among the amenities that football has given him is to have played in two world championships. In 1963 he was selected by FIFA to make the team "Rest of the World" which faced the English at Wembley Stadium in London.

After retiring as an active player became coach. He managed Castilla, Castellón, Palencia, Granada and several teams from the inferior categories of the Real Madrid. Today, Gento is "Real Madrid ambassador in Europe", traveling in front of the first team, along with his inseparable friend and Honorary President of Real Madrid, Alfredo DiStefano, on European soil.

Kaká: "Benzema's success depends on him"

Kaka is very clear and, with the naturalness with which face any issue of debate, has said that the one who holds the key to success in Real Madrid is himself Benzema: "It depends on him. In practice we see that he is a great player, technically amazing, no doubt a very good footballer and very technical, but there are times in matches which he is a bit out of the game and leaves us feeling that he could do a little more, which is what expected of him".

Kaka talked about Benzema

What could have sounded like an intended message or could generate some controversy, at the mouth of the Brazilian sounds like the quiet reflection of a teammate that is trying to help. These words and other 'pearls' as "Barcelona is not invincible as was demonstrated by the Betis" or "I appear in the key months in which football will decide if we win something or not in a season where we cannot lose" or "after a long injury, you need people to help you and Mourinho is doing with me from day one and now I'm getting minutes slowly" or "I'm very self-critical and I know I'm not at my best level yet, but I hope to be as soon as possible"... were said during the presentation of his new boots because Adidas wanted to celebrate the return of Brazilian star with its new 'adiPure'.

Asked about the controversy created over the immediate future of Mourinho, Kaka does not mince words: "Coach told us 'I am your coach and we will give everything to win, then we'll see what happens at the end of the season'. And one thing is the contract and other how campaigns are gone. But if we did not win a title, does not mean he cannot follow as coach.”

And he did not avoid talking about the need for a '9' for the Real Madrid template: "I'm a player and I do my job. If we need a '9' or not is something that the coach and the club will discuss. If Van Nistelrooy came, OK. He helped a lot and I learned a lot from him as long as he was here".

Cup Quarterfinals (2nd Leg): Players reactions

CASILLAS: "MOURINHO IS THE NUMBER ONE; IT CREATES A LOT OF ENVY" 

The captain of Real Madrid, Iker Casillas, said the team was able to play well the quarter-finals of Cup against Atletico Madrid: "We controlled the first minutes, then we find the goal and they came down. They tried but I think today was our best defensive game in 2011".

Iker Casillas

On the rumors that suggest that Mourinho could leave the club, Casillas is confident in the commitment of his coach: "The coach has his ways of being. He has his character and genius, but is a committed person. He is the number one in terms coaches, and that creates a lot of envy. Real Madrid and Mourinho made a good pairing. "

About Jorge Valdano "Jorge is a person who has a way of being and the coach too. In a relationship there may be differences, but seeking the good of Madrid" said the captain.

ARBELOA: “I THINK THE CLUB SHOULD SUPPORT MOURINHO TO DEATH”

Arbeloa gave great importance to the white team's goal that settled the tie at the very beginning the meeting: "Our goal was key. We knew it was important to keep a clean sheet because we thought we could concede a goal given their strength in attack. Our strike hit them hard psychologically and they hardly had any chances to score since. I am sorry for Reyes' injury. It was an accident. I didn't mean to hurt him".

Alvaro Arbeloa

And evaluated the matches against Sevilla, the team's next opponents in the Spanish Cup: "Our games against Sevilla will be very important and we are very excited to play them. We have to try to win always because we can't afford to make mistakes. Our fixtures with Sevilla will be tough and difficult. We will have to fight hard to win. We are just two games away from a final and we are very excited about that".

About Mourinho: "We know what Mourinho thinks what's happening in the club. He has all our confidence and we think the club should support him to death. I hope so"

ALONSO: “PLAYING WITHOUT A CENTRE FORWARD HAS ADVANTAGES”

White midfielder said the game went as they expected. Atletico with the desire to win but could be controlled by the Real Madrid players: "Atletico started strong, as was to be expected. Fortunately, Cristiano's goal calmed things down and allowed us to face up to the remainder of the match. We controlled the pacing and, despite having few chances to score, we managed to prevent Atletico from reaching our goal most of the time. We knew how to play the match to keep the advantage we got in the first leg."

Xabi Alonso

About the next round: "The knockout stage will be difficult, as befits a Spanish Cup semifinal. The first leg at the Sanchez Pizjuan will be very tough, but I believe we are prepared to win it".

Also commented on the change team strategy for this game: "Playing without a centre forward has its advantages. It allows Cristiano to have more freedom in attack and Marcelo to cover more ground down the wing. What matters is that we are true to our style regardless of who plays. It proves we have a solid squad".

RAMOS: “SEMIFINALS AGAINST SEVILLA WILL BE TOUGH”

"We know the semifinals against Sevilla will be tough because they are a great team. We have great hopes to win the Copa and we will fight hard to reach the final."

The white defense would not comment anything about the substitution of Benzema: "In order to win titles the most important thing is to stick together, regardless of who plays". 

ALBIOL: “THE TEAM FEELS FINE AND WE GRADUALLY IMPROVE”

Raúl Albiol believes that the semi-final against Sevilla will be tough because theAndalusian team has high hopes for winning the competition as it did last year: "We are very happy because we are one step away from the final. The two games will be tough. The Copa is very important to Sevilla and they've reached far in the championship in recent years. Both teams are anxious to win".

About the team and the possibility to win titles: "The harder our rivals, the better the satisfaction to win the title, if we manage to. The team feels fine and we gradually improve. We are fighting to win three titles. We won't give up in any championship".

MARCELO: “I ALWAYS PLAY WHERE I'M NEEDED”

The left back played more ahead than usual, a strategy that helped the team to qualify for next round: "I play wherever I can help the team. The coach asked me to play in this position tonight and I always play where I'm needed" "We will try to reach the final, but we must now think about the league because our next match will be tough".

Spanish Cup: Quarterfinals (2nd Leg)

ATLETICO 0 - REAL MADRID 1

Real Madrid in the semifinals of Spanish Cup against Sevilla and Atletico so overcome by the derby as in the past eleven years. Twenty matches that have already built a complex that could renew the philosophical question of red and white boy: Daddy, why we always lose against Real Madrid?

The intrigue was short, until 22 minutes, goal by Cristiano Ronaldo. It was a purely theoretical intrigue, also must be said. In practice, the Real Madrid seemed to control the situation but they did not need to play too much. There was no sign of the feared attack from Atletico nor hell-fire nor the flame of a lighter. Some confidence it is necessary for football, a little, at least. Nothing. The Atletico only opportunity reached by a blunder of Casillas who smashed a punt against the pressure of Reyes and rebound nearly ended in a goal.

Iker Casillas save

Mourinho made changes to the eleven. He insisted on the substitution of Benzema (summer must be sold by weight), sat down Kaka and sent Marcelo to midfield, with Arbeloa behind. It was not bad for the team but also it was much better. No matter, to be honest. Madrid has superiority over Atletico that has little to do with tactical moves. It is a technical and moral mastery, an issue to be dealt with the patient lying on the couch.

Quique, meanwhile, opted for Elias, Tiago and Fran Merida. Neither said any revitalizing effect. The new one is just another worker; the Portuguese are to achieve his best and Merida still needs cooking time. Their meeting in the middle did not secure the ball nor offset the substitution of Juanfran.

The goal of the match was caught on the first serious deployment of Madrid, when his body appeared on the balcony of the enemy area. After two attempts, and spinning the same play; a center of Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo appeared like the best nine of the world, maybe it is. It was an uncontested shot of which swell the net.

Shortly thereafter, Atletico admitted Reyes’ injury as a fatal omen, almost like a signfrom the gods: it would not be this time. Diego Costa was the relief of the injured player and completed a superb move for band that no one believed. The ball went around the goalkeeper Casillas without finding dog to bark

Real Madrid had no interest in anymore. It looked like they always kept something, a lot and no better than Cristiano to symbolize. After he scored a goal and several powerful runs attended Di Maria with the heel. If he had needed, would have more goals, runs, and heels.

In the second part, Fran Mérida was the one who was closest to the tie. He came with skill in the area but his shot was weak. That is obvious: no Kun, no fire. No hope.

Marcelo could be the victim of a penalty and an offside that would have ended in goal. But at this point the referee did not matter. There was not anything to discuss and maybe that's the worst thing you can say about Atletico: They did not discuss.

Summary

Stadium: Vicente Calderón
Attendance: 53,000
Goals: 0-1, m. 22: Cristiano Ronaldo

Higuain: "I hope to return before the end of the season”

Gonzalo Higuain came this morning to T4 Madrid-Barajas Airport from Chicago.Higuain was happy with how everything goes from passing through the surgery and hopes to be ready before the season ends.

“I just feel the pain of the leg that would not let me play and now the countdown begins to return. My body will mark my recovery, I'm fine, we are on good way and I'm confident I can come back before the season ends, but my body will mark the time" said the player. 

Gonzalo Higuain came back happy from Chicago

Pipita said that "our intent is that he continues, we are happy with him. We'll see what happens in June but our intention is that he continues", refers to Mourinho.

On the rumors of the return to the team of Ruud Van Nistelrooy, just to supply the Argentine while he was out, Higuain said: "It's a great player; I played with him, and really helped me a lot. I was able to win a league with him and was very supportive of mine, as everyone who was here. But in my case, I'm happy, and what I can do is to continue in this line"

Higuain expressed his joy for the support of his teammates during these months. "A lot of happiness, it was a great support. I'm in the process of rehabilitation and it is hard. The truth is that I am suffering because I love this sport, I love to play. The important thing now is to recover one hundred per cent. Health comes first. But it is all in good way which is important" he said.

Preview: Real Madrid vs Atletico

With a 3-1 lead heading into the second leg of the Copa del Rey quarterfinals against Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid hope to clinch a berth in the next round with a win at the Vicente Calderon. 

After the Copa draw paired Real Madrid with Atletico, surely the Whites did not expect to visit the Vicente Calderon with a 3-1 lead after the first leg of the tie. But even when holding the upper hand, the Madridistas have little room for error come kick-off on Thursday.

Similar to last week, Jose Mourinho gave no hints as to who he might line up in the starting eleven. What is certain, however, is that the same twenty players who suited up over the weekend in Almeria will be present and available against the red-whites. As it is difficult to guess the lineup, it does not seem wrong to bet on Gago and Benzema as news in the eleven. The Argentine to complete the rotations and the French for failing to declare the civil war; to delay it maybe.

Carvalho's return to central defense and Özil or Granero doubt in the playmaker position draw a picture that gives no respite to Di Maria who any day leaves the match with oxygen mask.

Quique Sanchez Flores has asked his men to "never give up. We need to play enough fury to turn the tie around." Atletico know coming back from a two goal deficit won't be easy, but their head coach has plenty of faith in his team and its fans. "We need to remain hopeful until the very last second," added Flores.

To accomplish the difficult task at hand, Atletico will be without Aguero, Mario Suarez and Jorge Pulido, all of whom are injured, as well as Antonio Lopez, who will serve his one-match ban. Koke, Borja Gonzalez and Alberto Perea have all been called up to fill in.

The question of red-whites focuses on the starter position of Tiago and Fran Mérida. The Portuguese is tired and Catalan pop. The rest are counted beans; a great keeper (De Gea), two notable extremes (Juanfran and Reyes) and a striker Forlan, who is lethal when sitting in physical and spiritual coincidence that fails to appear recently.

Reviewed the contenders and the players, it is the turn of the Vicente Calderon. After 19 derbies without a win, the fans of Atletico feels that the twenty needs to go up. And it should be there. The first objective is to exploit the initial attack to score a goal and then we'll see as the sun rises. Or the moon.

No matter what direction you look in, history favors Real Madrid. On one side, Atletico haven't defeated the Whites since 30 October 1999. On another, the Madridistas have won 10 of 15 Copa del Rey ties against their cross-town rival. But if that's not enough, Real Madrid have won all five ties after winning the first leg 3-1.

Mourinho: "I'm too old to send me errands in the newspapers"

Jose Mourinho appeared particularly tense at the meeting press the day before the derby against Atletico and left messages for everyone. On the issue of '9 ', said: "I am not the one to talk. I did it in preseason and in November when we all knew that Higuain missing a long time. And I have not said anything. That's what you speak and people who send messages. I'm too old for them to send me running errands in the newspapers. I'm a dinosaur for that. I choose myself and if I have questions, ask advice from my staff".

Jose Mourinho at press conference

He did not say whether he was referring to managers, although the reference to Jorge Valdano seemed clear, and when asked if he was tightening the rope with Florentino Perez said: "You see ghosts and films of suspense and terror".

And he left another message when asked about the fact that the team has started losing the last three games: "Several of our opponents have scored first, but we've never lost. We came back against Villarreal and Atletico, and we drew against Almeria without a striker and with Kaka on the pitch. It doesn't worry me to have to make comebacks in games. What would worry me would be a lack of reaction or character to do so".

Mourinho also denied that the team accused of fatigue and has given a warning to them: "Have you ever seen Real Madrid experience difficulties in the final minutes of a game? No. This is a side that dominates, and that scored to win and to draw against Almeria."

He also referred to the arbitration issue: "I do not question the honesty of referees, but some things they do are obvious and non-hipocrites don't have a problem pointing them out. The other day, I said the referee failed to award us two decisive penalties. I didn't mean it in an offensive or critical manner. I was just stating the obvious, what everyone saw. We would have had more chances to score and to win the game had he awarded them"

"There is no controversy here. He failed to award penalties. Controversy is when someone makes things up, not when he points out the obvious and unquestionable. Referees lack the humility to admit they make mistakes. Nevertheless, we conceded a goal offside against Atletico and I said the referee in that match was fantastic".

And on the complaint of the Technical Committee of Arbitrators to the Competition Committee on his words about Perez Lasa said: "I said that there is a rule for me and one for the rest. This history is repeating".

As for the cries of “Mourinho, drop dead” at the Calderon during Atletico vs Mallorca match, he said: "I cannot say much. If you can insult someone in public, why a couple of thousand people cannot scream as they do. This is a consequence. What shold I do? Do not go to the next match?

Interview: Cristiano Ronaldo (2)

Cristiano Ronaldo

You finish the first round with 23 goals. If you were able to maintain this incredible average, won the top scorer with 46 goals! It would be a historical record in the 79 contested leagues today. Are you motivated to beat the record of 38 goals (Hugo Sanchez and Zarra)?
I don’t play for record-breaking, I do not think about it. What I focus is on maintaining the level until the end of the season and help Real Madrid to win another title. I'm not obsessed with numbers, but obviously I'd like and it motivates me better this time.

But you do not pretend that we believe that, at the end of each day, not looking in the classification of Pichichi how you go and how they are rivals, and especially Messi.
I focus on continuing to work to the highest level to give my team the best. And if the end gets a prize like that, it is welcome. But between the top scorer and the Champions League, I have it clear.

So let's talk team. Has improved so much with Mourinho as it seems? Is it the Portuguese better coach than Pellegrini?
I hate to say whether it is better or worse. Everyone has their methods and we must respect everyone. I loved working with Pellegrini and Mourinho has left his mark in every country where it has worked. Their titles speak for themselves. I am excited to work with him, had long been looking forward to it.

Is true that Mourinho and you made a conjure at the start of the season to win all with the Real Madrid?
A conjure no, it is not necessary. We talk a lot but those things do not need to say them.Clearly, if Mourinho wins, Madrid also won. Always think about the collective, not just the coach and me.

By the way, how do you talk in the locker room, in Portuguese or Spanish?
In the dressing room I speak three or four languages. Wrong or right, but I speak: Spanish, Portuguese, English, some French and some German word. The truth is that the teammates are phenomenal.

In that locker room it is said it was very good which made the coach at halftime against Villarreal. You know, he explained the change of tactics with water bottles on the floor.
You guys have very good information, ja, ja, ja! What happens in the dressing room I do not think we should talk. No matter for me to tell anything about it. These are things that the coach wanted to improve and of course the better.

Has Mourinho taken a load off on the issue of media pressure?
Yes, Mou has taken away a lot of pressure and I am glad, very well. For me it's a good thing, because he is a coach who gives a lot of covers and that people like because it generates debate. Speak good or bad, but the important thing is that about him.

Are all criticisms voiced about him just? There is not a day people do not 'shake' you.
People can say what they want, but do not know him. Sometimes I laugh because I read things that make no sense. They are opinions of people; we are in a democratic country where everyone can say whatever he wants. It's part of football and his character, and he must remain the same, be calm and do his job, nothing more.

Tell the readers how Mourinho is in privacy. Some speak of him like a freak.
Very supportive to his players, he talks a lot with us. He is very open and listens to what you say, thinks with us, giving us the reason or not ... I'm delighted with it. My relationship and almost all players with the coach is perfect. I hope he stays here for many years.

Can you argue with him?
Semantics, yes we can. About group or locker room things, yes; to go or not to the hotel, things like that. He can ignore us or not, but he listens to everyone.

Casillas managed to scratch two-hour on another meeting day in the Cup That's one aspect of battle in which the template will not surrender.
Yes, indeed. Little by little we will see if we can continue to negotiate.

Do you identify with the manner of Mourinho, with his tremendous ambition?
Yes, a lot. Now that I am with him see that I have to work much more in common with him than I thought. I am delighted to work with people as ambitious as he, who want towin. It makes me happy, I like it.

Speaking of ambition, you are still determined to be the best player ever, right?
I'm still working to be, and at the end of my career is when people estimate. In my head Ibelieve that I can become one or not, but I try to think positive and always play the best I can so that when I retire, people can appreciate me and I have a solid race. If not, would not be doing anything in football.

Since the position of Messi focused on the center of the field his scoring performance increased significantly. Can the same happen to you, as we saw against Villarreal?
The teams are completely different; we cannot compare to Real Madrid with Barcelona because its working methods have nothing to do. Depends on many factors. But I'm very comfortable where I play.

Benzema is not seizing the opportunities that Mourinho is giving him following the injury Higuain. How do you see?
Benzema, my honest opinion, is not worth the things people said about him. When analyzing his last games, you can see he is working, is struggling. Sometimes things do not go, as well as the goals, but Karim is a huge football value.

You might get some kind of ambition. No doubt he has talent to give and take, but she seems too apathetic.
Each person has his character, his ambition, but it's not a guy who is doing wrong. I look good, better, helping the team and grow in recent games. Benzema is working; do not pressure him, it is best to leave this.

Do you think he will succeed at Real Madrid?
Why not? If you leave work in peace and not talk so much about him, he will improve a lot.

Who are you most comfortable in the lead, with Benzema or Higuain?
With both, really. I swear! Now, if you ask me what I prefer to play, yes I have an opinion what I cannot say, you understand. If you live and you're not a hypocrite, there are always players that you like more play than others. If you ask other players will say the same.

That player with who you like best play, is he who we all think?
Maybe. I like both. There are two phenomenal kids, not just say who I like to play more. Mourinho knows what I think.

The numbers say that Cristiano scores more goals with Benzema, and more often.
Yes? I did not know.

Among young talents there are now, do you see someone as his successor who looks like you?
I do not see any like me. Maybe best, but with my specific characteristics do not see anyone. There are many good guys, for example in the Real Madrid: Di Maria, Özil, Canales ...

What about Canales?
He is very good. Give him time, he is still growing, but is in a fantastic group and will be a great player.

Could he be a global crack?
Yes, he has crack things, details that surprise us all in practice, but there is still much to learn. I like a lot.

Speaking of surprise, have you been surprised by the performance of Di Maria?
Yes, although I knew him because I watched the Portuguese League on television and had seen enough at Benfica. He runs hard and is very combative, perhaps the most on the team. A player like that is always a great need for a big team. Right now, he is the player “on fire” of the team.

About youth squad players who train at times with the first team, who do you see with the potential to play whit Real?
On the few occasions that the boys have played with us, I can see that there are some with great quality. Morata is good, is good player, young, big, is learning a lot and can be a great player in the future. Juanfran and Mateos, anyway.

Do you know Jesè?
I know them all, but I find it hard to remember all their names, really.

Kaká started in Almeria. Before his injury you two were connecting very well both inside and outside the dressing room. How do you see him now?
He will give a lot of joy to the fans of Madrid. He is working hard to return and I am convinced it will succeed. If he has no more injuries will be very important for us because he is still a crack.

In the field it is clear that he still needs the pace. In training, what is his progression?
Yes, Kaka is better. He is still not one hundred percent, he has to keep growing and playing more. He will reach the level of competition that he had, with a bit more difficult, as anyone who has had surgery and has had a serious injury.

Do you have a good relationship with Casillas?
Yes, I do not understand. These things make me sad. When people say I do not play well or I'm individualistic I respect because they are opinions, but when they say things they do not know, I get disgusted. I do not know where they see it! It's nonsense! I get along with everyone, it's true. If you ask my teammates they'll all say the same.

What did you think when people said that Iker and you did not talk?
I was disgusted. How is it possible? I was right, scoring goals, my family was fine ... and that happened. It was a controversy that made no sense. These are things we talked about at the time and were clear. It was a misunderstanding on my part and by Iker and his girlfriend, but they are normal things that we talk and it's fixed. No need to dramatize or make it a controversy. We're fine; I get along with Iker and his girlfriend. No more ..

What do you think about Pepe’s renew is taking so long?
If I were president Florentino, he would be renewed. Today, I call him: "Hey, Pepe, come here, we renew you" For me it's a phenomenal player that has to be at Real Madrid. Not only because he is my friend, but because he is a world class player. If you already have here does not make sense to let him go. It's a matter of paying a little bit of money and sign, and that's it.

Well, it appears that he asks a lot more money.
No, that's what you think. He asks what he deserves. He must follow with us. I would like to settle this matter; I have hope that our president Florentino renews him because he is one of the best in the world and has to follow us.

Do you think he can get nervous if the negotiation is procrastination?
When you are not quiet things do not go, you are not one hundred per cent focused. I cannot deny it. But Pepe is well, is quiet and still with us. I am convinced that they will agree.