Zidane on Mbappé love, Bale's readiness, and PSG test
The Real Madrid manager spoke to the press ahead of Tuesday's Champions League match against PSG, key to their progression.
With the hours counting down to a tasty looking Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane spoke to the press.
Zidane on PSG clash
Asked whether the game was about head or heart, the French coach had mixed feelings.
"A bit of everything," he began. "We also need concentration and, ultimately, to play football. We have an important game tomorrow against an opponent who is doing very well."
Sergio Ramos had been whistled at the Bernabéu after his mistake but Zidane wasn't too fussed about it.
"I don't feel bad, nor good. Our fans are important. It is a plus if they are with us because the team feels the difference. After that moment they were with the team from minute 1 to 90".
Bale is ready
Another player who came in for some fan attention - more so after his flag antics than anything he did on the field - was Gareth Bale. Asked whether or not this game was decisive for him remaining part of the team, Zidane played it cool.
"It is important for everyone, for him, for the fans, and for all of us. We need a great game. They are having a magnificent season and we know that this game will be more demanding than the others. But we enjoy this.
"We have improved since then [the 3-0 loss in Paris], but it is not a rematch. We want to get the result and stay consistent, confirming our dynamic. It will be interesting."
The manager also said that Bale is ready to play if called upon.
Mbappé love
Attention then turned to the opposing winger, Kylian Mbappé, who just the day before had been discussed in an interview with Eden Hazard, who said he'd do anything to bring him to Madrid.
"He arrives as a rival. What matters to me most is what we do. We know his importance to PSG and we have to be prepared."
The question put to him over the love Mbappé may have for Madrid was quickly turned around by Zidane.
"I am in love with him, first as a person. He came here before on trial."
Zidane also heaped praise on an impressive opponent calling them "one of the best teams in the world" but put a focus on the improvements that he has seen in his own side. He also expected both Neymar and Mbappé to be selected by Thomas Tuchel despite some doubts and suggested that it would be better for the viewing public if all the stars were on the pitch.
As always, you can follow all the action right here with as at AS English, and we'll start the build-up around an hour or so before kick-off.