Real Madrid News
Real Madrid mainstay relives the magic of his most memorable day at the club
Real Madrid’s turnaround under Xabi Alonso has been exquisite, to say the least.
These are indeed early days but one cannot refute that the men in white have made significant progress from where they left off last season.
Los Blancos now look more stable at the back, lethal in attack, but most importantly, stable through the midfield.
In fact, Alonso’s arrival has seen some players like Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia dominate more than they have before.
Aurelien Tchouameni, however, may well be the single biggest beneficiary of the managerial change for his change in position sees him as a regular starter with no competition as a defensive midfielder-cum-third central defender based on the phase of the game.
Tchouameni’s memorable day
Speaking to the media (h/t RM4Arab) in a recent interview, the midfielder was asked about the most important moment of his footballing career so far which has already proven very illustrious for both club and country.
“It’s tough. I feel blessed for everything I’ve achieved. But I’d say without a doubt that my first day at Real Madrid was the standout moment,” he said without hesitation.
Elaborating on why he chose his first day at the club as the most special moment, he said,
“For me, it’s the biggest club in the world. So, to have the chance to play for them, to soak in every moment there, I think that’s definitely one of the most significant moments for me.”
The Frenchman was then asked about the level at Real Madrid and how it compared to the previous clubs he had represented before his big-money move.
“It’s a completely different level. As we always say, there are levels in football.”
“Monaco and Bordeaux definitely helped me become the player I am today. But Real Madrid is something entirely different,” he added.
Playing as a midfielder
Tchouameni then outlined the various factors that influenced a player’s ability to succeed at a club like Real Madrid.
“The pressure, the dedication required, the commitment, the fans spread all over the world. Every match is played to win and to win titles. It’s a dream come true.”
Playing as a defensive midfielder, the youngster is one of the most crucial pieces for Los Blancos on the field and he spoke on how he stayed cool under the constant pressure to uphold the high standards and outperform himself.
“I’d say every match has its own story. But for sure, I work with my mental coach before every game to be psychologically ready, because we know every match is a big challenge emotionally and mentally.”
“So I try to stay fully focused. And to be in a good state,” he added.
Finally, the player was asked how he saw his football career ending, to which he said,
“At the top. Always at the top. And I hope that will still be at Real Madrid, the greatest club in the world,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
