Real Madrid News
Thomas Muller wants Germany to develop Real Madrid mentality: “An example to us”
Speaking after Germany’s 3-3 draw against England (h/t DW Sports), Thomas Muller claimed that the national team would do well to follow in the footsteps of Real Madrid and develop a mentality like the Merengues.
Real Madrid, under Carlo Ancelotti last season, came back from situations when they seemed to be down and out on more than one occasion to lift the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League trophy.
The sheer mental strength and the never give up attitude that Real Madrid showed over the course of the campaign was the driving force behind the success as they beat the odds to win from extremely difficult positions against the likes of PSG, Chelsea and Manchester City.
And, Muller has claimed that he wishes Germany can follow Real Madrid as an example as they get set for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year.
On Monday, Germany were ahead of England 2-0 at one point before allowing the Three Lions to make a comeback and take a 3-2 lead. However, a late equaliser meant that they could salvage a point.
And, Muller then claimed that Die Mannschaft should try and follow Real Madrid as an example as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar which will get underway in November.
“Maybe Real Madrid are an example to us. I’ve played for a lot of coaches, including Carlo Ancelotti, who has won the most trophies. After things that don’t go well, it’s all about getting back up and keeping your confidence. We’d do well to follow that,” he said.
Following their all-conquering campaign last time out, Real Madrid have made a 100% start to the new season and have won all their nine matches across all competitions so far. Following the international break, they will resume the defence of their La Liga crown against Osasuna.
Real Madrid News
Inter Milan boss Chivu praises Mourinho ahead of Real Madrid showdown: ‘A special person’
Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu has described Jose Mourinho as “a special person” ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Romanian spent two seasons playing under Mourinho at Inter between 2008 and 2010, a period that culminated in the club winning the Champions League at the very same stadium in 2010.
A serial winner
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chivu reflected warmly on his former manager.
“He’s a special person who I was lucky enough to meet in my life. He gave me important help during a difficult period of my life, and I’ll never forget that,” Chivu said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Chivu also praised Mourinho’s ability to influence the teams he manages and instil his mentality in his players.
“He’s very good at immersing himself in the reality of the team he represents and transmitting his mentality. He’s a winner who knows how to communicate things at the right moment. Very few people know how to do that like he does,” he said.
“He has won everywhere he has been, and I’m sure Real Madrid will have a great season.”
Despite his admiration for Mourinho, Chivu insisted that the Portuguese has not served as a template for his own coaching career.
Asked whether he takes inspiration from his former manager, the Inter boss replied: “I’ve never copied anyone. I have my own idea of football, which has been built through my years as a player and as a coach.”
Chivu assesses Mourinho’s Real Madrid
Chivu believes it is still too early to draw firm conclusions about Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid.
“It’s still very early. It has been a fairly balanced start, although they lost their last match undeservedly because they played very well,” he said.
“They’re a team with a great history and a coach who knows how to do things.”
“Playing at the Bernabeu is not easy for anyone”
With Mourinho in the dugout and Chivu in defence, Inter defeated Bayern Munich in the 2010 Champions League final at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The now-Inter manager believes returning to the stadium where they lifted the trophy 16 years ago will provide a special occasion, although he knows the challenge facing his team.
“The stadium has been renovated and it’s even more beautiful. It has a great tradition and today it’s more beautiful and more modern. We like playing a Champions League match in this stadium,” he said.
“Playing at the Bernabeu is not easy for anyone. Inter haven’t won here for 60 years. We’ll do everything possible and we want to show that we’re competitive and that we have the desire to dominate.
“There’s no perfect way to play against Real Madrid because they have players who can make the difference regardless of the plan you have.”
Inter arrive in Madrid after recovering from a difficult game against Napoli, while Chivu prepares to face the coach who played such an important role in his career.
