Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid boss Solari responds to star
Santi Solari has stuck up for his players after Cristiano Ronaldo's remarks that the Real Madrid squad is less humble than Juventus's.
Real Madrid coach Santi Solari took the unusual step of speaking to the media early on Tuesday morning, before Los Blancos trained for the final time in preparation for their Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow.
As he looked ahead to Wednesday night's group-stage game at the Bernabéu, the Argentine discussed injuries, Vinicius, Cristiano Ronaldo's recent comments in the Italian media, and many more of the latest issues affecting the LaLiga giants.
Solari's pre-CSKA Moscow press conference:
Injuries: "Both the coaching staff and medical team work as hard as we can to have as many players available as possible. It's almost impossible [to have everyone fit], but we hope to welcome them [Madrid's injury absentees] back soon."
Following Cristiano's remarks that the Juventus squad is more of a "family" than Madrid's, would you say you have a humble dressing room? "Humility is a virtue that top players need, and at Real Madrid we've got a fantastic, humble squad; they've shown that. When it comes to every one of the values bound up in sport, this is a top group of players. Cristiano will always be special to this club, he went down in its history, and it's not down to anyone to judge the way he feels; that's something personal."
Why are Isco and Marco Asensio not getting more game time? "You clearly don't read the newspapers. If you read the papers, you'd know that I've already answered that question."
Would you rather win LaLiga or the Champions League? "Both; I don't have a particular preference. I'd also like to win the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup. Every competition merits our complete attention and should stimulate our competitive spirit. I've never been one to pinpoint a competition; I like every one of them, and we should be aiming to challenge for them all."
If a player arrived late to training, would you pick him for the next game? "We have our own set of rules within the squad, but that will remain private."
Marcelo: "Hopefully he'll be available to us again soon. What's most important is that, when players return, they are fit and feeling sharp, and are ready to play regularly."
Vinicius: "I think he has exceeded expectations. He's still only 18; he's a young lad. He has already started and scored in the white shirt. He's only just arrived, and we're very happy with his progress."
Marcos Llorente's future: "I don't know. I'm very happy with his performances in every training session and when he's played. I can't look into a crystal ball and tell you what is going to happen with him or with other players."
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