Vallejo: “I want to stay in Real Madrid, Zidane told me he was happy with me”

Real Madrid defender Jesus Vallejo talked to the press ahead of Spain U21’s debut in the Euro and insisted about his desire to stay in the club past this summer.

“Of course I want to stay, I’m very happy. I felt very good over the last few games where I was able to play and I helped the team. The most important thing is to stay ready, no matter the minutes you get. You have to be ready when the coach calls your name,” said Vallejo.

The young defender had many injuries this past season but was able to contribute during the last few matches and completed some solid performances. Still, Real Madrid will have three starting-caliber defenders in Ramos, Varane and Militao next year, so the final decision for the fourth spot will be between Nacho and Vallejo.

“Zidane told me he was very happy with the work I was putting in both in the games and also during the training sessions. He told me I had to keep it up because this upcoming Euro was going to be huge for us,” revealed Vallejo.

In the end, Nacho’s ability to play in the flanks will probably be the decisive factor, which means that Vallejo could leave on a loan deal in order to find the minutes he needs to keep developing as a player.

The defender also talked about Madrid’s recent signings.

“I joined Real Madrid right when he signed for Eintracht Frankfurt, so I have not met him. However, teammates in Eintracht tell me that he’s a fantastic player,” said Vallejo. “Hazard is one of the world’s greatest and he will help us a lot,” added the defender.