Il Capitano holds a press conference
Fabio Cannavaro responded to questions from the media following Friday morning's training session. The Italian is happy in Madrid and he thinks his team is going to win some titles this year. He is well aware that winning is all that counts at Real Madrid.
How do you feel after your first couple weeks with your new team?
I feel really good because we have worked hard. Several experienced players have joined the team and they are going tot contribute a lot this year.
How did you feel during your Bernabéu debut?
It was really nice. Taking the pitch at the Santiago Bernabéu is an impacting experience for a player. It's a stadium that gets your adrenaline flowing. Sunday is what matters. It will be a hard battle. We need to start off strong with a win.
Is it everything that you had hoped?
Yes! Everyone knows Real Madrid and how important it is to win and train hard here.
Is the centre of the defense solid?
There are five of us. We have Sergio and Woodgate, who have a lot of experience. I like what I'm seeing from Sergio Ramos. He's young, has guts, and is strong.
Does Barcelona scare you?
I know nothing about Barcelona. I'm only interested in Real Madrid. I'm not going to pay attention to other teams.
Were the awards that Barça received yesterday a little too much?
It wasn't going over top. If they won something it's because they deserved it last year. But, we hope its us who win the awards next year.
What are your thoughts on the group [Champions League]?
We are all on the same playing field. Barcelona is in a difficult group, but I'm only interested in ours. We're in a normal group with four similar teams, but Real Madrid is the favourite to win.
The League starts on Sunday. Do you need one more week of training?
It would be good for be because I only got here on 9 July. But, my teammates trained very well and for a long time, so I think they're ready.
Is the team expecting an impatient Bernabéu?
No. It's normal that fans complain when their team isn't playing well and isn't giving their best effort. The Bernabéu is just like any other stadium, but a little bigger.
Is Chivu necessary?
I prefer the players at Madrid.
In Spain we compare Madrid and Barcelona? Aside from playing well, is winning important?
Yes. Winning is what counts.
What are your thoughts on the League?
I've seen the three teams who played for the Carranza Trophy. They were strong, they ran a lot, they were good techincally, and well organised. It will be hard to win the League, but I know Real Madrid's goal is to get to June in the first spot in the table.
Who are Madrid's rivals?
Barcelona, Valencia, and Atletico Madrid.
Does all the talk about Ronaldo worry the team?
It worried the press, but not the team. We're just thinking about Sunday. Ronaldo is a phenom. He's a Real Madrid player who is happy working with us. All he's thinking about is Sunday.
Is Kaká vital to this team?
No. He's a great player, but not vital.
Who has surprised you the most?
Everyone. I like players who give 110% on the pitch. I think Raúl always gives his best effort. He runs, fights...I really admire him.
You're wearing Zidane's number '5'. What does it represent for you?
Zidane is an incredible player. We are very different. I have other qualities. I'm wearing this number because of the World Cup. It brought me luck and I'm happy. But, it's an honour to be wearing Zidane's '5'.
Italian press criticises players who leave the country.
When a player in Italy changes teams, he's considered a traitor. But that's football. One year here, two there. Fans don't like it, because they start to like a player and then...but that's football.
No one thought Italy would win the World Cup. And, now they're saying Madrid isn't the favourite.
It's perfect like that. The favourite doesn't always win. We hope we can give the League a big surprise.
Why are you always happy?
I've always been like this. I am very fortunate. I have my dream job. I have always played football. I have a family and three kids, and I play for Real Madrid. Why should I be sad? I'm a world champion.
La Liga or Champions League?
Either. They are different, but equally important.
Is Chelsea the European team to beat?
Chelsea, Inter, Milan…they're all strong teams and they've done some great rebuilding.
Who will be Real Madrid's revelation?
I hope its Diarra, Ruud, or Cassano. Antonio is very happy. He's thrilled that he lost weight
