Zidane: “Winter signings? Anything can happen”

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane talked in press conference ahead of Saturday’s home match against Espanyol —13:00 CEST— and discussed the injuries to Eden Hazard and Marcelo while also sharing his thoughts on potential winter signings this January.

“Injuries are always tough. Hazard isn’t happy but it is what it is. I hope that he comes back soon although it’s obviously a bigger injury than the one we thought. Same goes for Marcelo and Gareth, we have to keep going,” said Zidane.

The Frenchman was also asked about what the players can do to avoid injuries.

“I don’t know if they can actually do anything. It’s not only important to train, it’s also crucial to eat well and recover. I think our players do that and our medical staff here is one of the best. The players know it,” explained the coach.

Much has been said about Casemiro, who is one yellow card away from being suspended, with Madrid visiting Valencia and Barcelona just next week.

“We can’t do anything, if he gets a yellow that’s it, he’s out,” said Zidane, who didn’t want to discuss the possibility of giving the midfielder some rest against Espanyol.

Hazard’s injury could mean that minutes are coming Vinicius’ way fairly soon.

“This is the right time for every player to step up. Vinicius will be with us tomorrow, you will see the squad list soon. This is his moment and also everybody else’s. They all have to be ready,” said Zidane.

The Frenchman wrapped up Friday’s press conference by addressing the possibility of making some signings this winter.

“Anything can happen. We will see when the time comes, but right know these are the players I have and these are the players I trust,” concluded Zidane.