Real Madrid completed its first two raining sessions in the UCLA facilities after a long trip from Spain. After the first practice, Captain Iker Casillas addressed the media in the University's press room with a long press conference in which he discussed Real Madrid's defensive men, Kaká, and the team's goals for this upcoming season.
With the team we have, the players, the fans and the stadium, this team deserves the Champions League. The steps we are taking are the right ones and we have a young and very experienced team. Two years of experience are very useful. Winning it is not an obsession since we must concentrate on wining the first league match and then Super cup.
José Mourinho wanted his players to play hard these first two training sessions and planned an intense practice so the players could start gaining some rhythm. Higuaín, Granero, Varane and Callejón worked separately from their teammates in order to recover after their efforts against Benfica, where they played too much considering that was only Madrid's second preseason game.
Iker Casillas spoke about Real Madrid's Academy players. Jesé, Nacho and Álex Fernández will be in this preseason stage in the United States.
I’m very happy for Real Madrid Castilla, who gained promotion to the Liga Adelante, and also for Real Madrid C, who will play in the Second B Division. It will be very important for them and will help them to mature. This is extremely important for the future because they develop as players and become more mature. The youth teams are important for us.
Regarding Real Madrid's movements in this transfer window, Casillas didn't want to speak very clearly.
We want to help him (Kaka'). It is important for us that a player of his stature is part of this squad. We want, as teammates and professionals, the best for him. He is an example for all of us. About Modric, I know him and he’s a great player. He performed quite well at the European Championship and if Real Madrid and Mourinho think he will be a good signing for the club then there is a reason for that. The manager always has the good of the club in mind and if Modric can help us go that step further then he will be welcomed.
Real Madrid will have a double session today to get ready for the next preseason game this Thursday against the Los Angeles Galaxy. Check out Managing Madrid's facebook and twitter for the latest preseason game coverage.