Zidane: “Every club has problems with injuries”

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane talked in the club’s pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s home game against Levante. The Frenchman shared his thoughts on the team’s injury report after Luka Modric’s groin injury.

“Every club has problems with injuries. We have players who just don’t stop because they play for their countries. I trust every man working here because they’re the best in the business. I hope that we don’t get more injuries after the one to Luka,” said Zidane when asked about this issue.

Gareth Bale talked to Sky Sports during this FIFA break and explained what it felt like to be on his way out of the club for most of the summer only to end up staying in Madrid and starting in the first three games.

“Nothing has truly changed, I’ve always said that he has amazing quality as a player. Everyone knew what was happening this summer. His happy and I’m happy, we have to move forward and nothing else. Every player here is the best and I will count on them, Gareth is one of them. That is my philosophy and I believe in each and every player,” explained Zidane.

Real Madrid face a crucial match against Levante where their confidence will be tested. Los Blancos dropped points against Valladolid a few weeks ago and they’ll need to take care of business even if they will face PSG and Sevilla next week.

“We know what we have to do because we dropped points. This has just started and we know how important it is to score points. If we give our very best we will have many opportunities to earn the three points,” said the coach.

Eden Hazard will be available after recovering from the thigh injury he picked up before the season opener against Celta. However, it seems that Zidane will not rush him back.

“We have to be patient because he’s been injured for three weeks. We all want to see him play but we have to be calm because there’s a lot of pressure and expectation. He’s ready but I will be the one deciding how to manage his recovery. We have to be calm and intelligent,” explained Zidane.

The coach was also asked about Vinicius. The Brazilian attacker hasn’t played with confidence ever since the pre-season started but the coach said there’s no reason to worry.

“He doesn’t have confidence? He’s got the trust of his coach, I can guarantee. He’s 19 years old and he’s the future of Real Madrid. It takes time and he’s trying to do his best, but sometimes he won’t play because I’ll give the chance to somebody else, that’s it. Stop saying that he doesn’t have confidence because he’s a great player, I’m counting on him and I trust him,” concluded Zidane.