Toni Kroos and Nacho Fernandez spoke to Realmadrid TV in the build-up to the Clásico at the Camp Nou on LaLiga matchday 26 (Sunday, 9:00pm CET). The Madrid stars assessed the team’s current form and expressed their thoughts on the importance of this game. They stated how this top game is never predictable, but with the right mindset and preparation Real Madrid is more than able to get the most from the every opponent including the historical rivals of Barcelona. Then, they also sent messages to the fans and praised their support, which is one of the most crucial things that keeps Madridistas on the pitch going strong.
The German midfielder had the following to say: “Sometimes I ask myself what's going to happen in the Clásico and I never get it right. it's a special game, it's unique. We know how important it is. It's big for us because if we win it, we can get closer to them. I don't know what kind of game it'll be. We're coming into it in good shape and I hope we're well prepared for tomorrow. We're had two days to recover but we're feeling better today and we're ready. We play big games against tough opposition, that's what the great teams do. If we keep this up, things will go well for us. Anyway, following the Champions League draw, we have to keep going to make it all the way to the final”.
His connection with Modrić: “I feel great playing alongside him. You just understand each other so well after almost nine years playing together. We have a great connection both on and off the pitch and you just know what each other are going to do. Regardless, we have great players around us too. Camavinga was incredible against Liverpool on Wednesday and he really helped us, particularly from a physical point of view".
"We have a really strong midfield and depending on how we want to approach the game, we might play certain players or others. I'm a team player, it's important to discuss everyone. The two of us have a longer history than the others but the important thing is what's happening now”, he added.
Over 400 Real Madrid appearances: “It's a nice number but I'm not too bothered. My relationship with the club is far more important. I've been here for almost nine fantastic, successful years. You can be at a club for nine years and still not get that feeling, or be somewhere for just two and feel at home. From my first day here up until now, I've always had the feeling that I'm at home. Success really helps you to be comfortable at a club like this but the key thing is how you feel. I'm at home and that means I can play my best football".
Message for the fans: “It's a Clásico and you know the importance of the roll you play. You really help us and we'll try and bring back the three points”.
Nacho expressed himself in the following terms: “The team is on a high after making it through the tie against Liverpool. That has filled us with confidence and we're hungry to go to Barcelona and win it. It's a hugely important game for us in the league and we're going into it full of confidence. The key is to stick together and be a compact unit. These games always come with real intensity and it's crucial that the team is mentally prepared. They're fantastic games to be involved in”.
One goal conceded in the last three games: “Keeping clean sheets and being strong defensively is fundamental if we want to keep achieving our goals, given our attacking prowess”.
The hours prior to the Clásico: “There is always tension in the build-up, you're excited and determined. They're different to other games and they're always special for those of us who have come through the ranks here. I'm happy to be here, we hope that the team can produce a good performance and take the three points”.
His family’s support: “I don't have to explain much to them, they've experienced this ever since they were little. They're madridistas like I am and they're thrilled to see their dad playing in the game. I'm happy and proud to have the support I get at home and now they're growing up it's really exciting”.
Spot in the Spain squad: “I'm really pleased. I haven't been in the squad for a few years now but it's amazing and I'm thrilled about it. To play for Real Madrid is unbelievable and playing for your country is very special. I am incredibly motivated, excited and can't wait to do a good job for them too”.
Message to the fans: “Get behind us as much as possible because we have a lot of amazing things still to come”.
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