Real head to La Dea 24th in the Champions League, with Valverde admitting it is a new experience for the title holders.
Key for tomorrow?
“We are in a situation that we are not used to and the only way to change the third is to get on the pitch at our best and show what we have been working on in recent days. Strength at the back and efficiency up. ” We know that Atalanta can score from man to man, but that can benefit us because of the players we have.”
How does it feel to look at the table and see yourself in 24th place?
“Of course it is difficult. Because we are not used to experiencing such moments; we are always at the top. But we have to remain calm, accept that it is part of football, part of the process, and have confidence in the work.” Hopefully we will enjoy titles at the end of the season. Even though we have won so much, we have to keep our feet on the ground.”
The high pressure of Atalanta and the lesson of San Mamés?
“What happened in San Mamés was very useful for me. To improve, to learn, to make sure that such a mistake does not happen again. It will be a team that will put us in a lot of difficulties and that will men on top of us, but we have very fast and skilled players. We are players made for these games.”
How do you see yourself personally?
“No, no. We haven't talked much. Very little, or almost nothing. But I have all the advice he's given me over the years. I can't screw him up much more. It's up to me. And I can do it.” Don't ask him for advice as a full-back… That would be too much! I want to help the team, give everything wherever they put me and wherever they need me. Sometimes matches don't go as I would like… and at San Mamés I made a mistake. That cost me the match, something that has never happened to me in my entire career. It was difficult to sleep that night, but that's football as an example.”
The 'sticks' for Ancelotti?
“Well, it's part of our job. Sometimes you put us on an altar and that's nice… but when things don't go well, they seem like the worst days of our lives. It's not easy, But you have to live with it “We are an example for the children, so we have to get through these moments as best we can.”
The Return of Vinicius:
“It's good that they're coming back from injury and for me it's a pleasure to have him back with everything he brings: joy and football. Hunger. It's a huge satisfaction and joy that he can be here tomorrow , even though the starting position will be up to the coach to decide.”
Want to be more compact:
“The formations are the coach's fault. He is the person who chooses the team. It is up to us to give the best of ourselves, whatever formation we choose. To contribute our grain of sand. As a midfielder I like to play with attackers who carry the ball forward a lot and less towards the back. As midfielders we want them to look at the opponent's goal and less at defending.”
Why don't you ever stop?
“No! I want to keep playing. You try to rest and eat well so that you are fit the next day. Of course, sometimes your head can explode. After San Mamés, for example, I had difficulty sleeping because I am not used to these moments I told my wife that I might be a little tired psychologically and she told me not to rely on myself, that I am a captain and that I have to face all this. It is up to the team to see that, even. if there are mistakes, you must always move forward. It's an honor to wear this shirt and defend the best team in the world.”
Only Rüdiger has played more than you… What's your secret?
“I want to enjoy defending this badge and playing in front of these fans to the fullest. For me it is a huge pride. Of course there are days when I am tired, but I want my children to see everything I have been able to do contributing to Real Madrid, when I retire I want my parents to be proud.
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