Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Saturday he was satisfied with his squad and ruled out any more signings before the transfer window shuts even though his side are short in defence and attack for Sunday’s game with Valencia.
Real have had a quiet two months in the transfer window, which closes on Thursday, bringing in only midfielder Dani Ceballos from Real Betis and full back Theo Hernandez from Atletico Madrid.
They have let go of forwards Alvaro Morata and James Rodriguez and are still without Cristiano Ronaldo for the next two games due to suspension, as well as missing their two first-choice centrebacks Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane and back-up Jesus Vallejo for the game against Valencia.
“We have four centrebacks, we don’t need reinforcements, and this (being without three central defenders) won’t happen again,” Zidane told a news conference on Saturday.
“We have (holding midfielders) Casemiro and Marcos Llorente who have already played in that position, we’re not going to look for a quick fix.”
The Frenchman also ruled out signing an extra forward, saying Spain under-21 striker Borja Mayoral would play a role in this campaign despite not being named in the squad since returning from a loan spell at Wolfsburg.
“I don’t want any more forwards, I’m happy with what I’ve got,” Zidane said.
“Mayoral hasn’t made a squad yet because we have 24 players, which is a lot, but I’m counting on him from now on and will do for the rest of the season. I’m sure we’re going to need him and he has to be ready for when an opportunity arises, and I’m sure it will.”
Valencia were one of only three teams to beat Real in the Liga last season and always make life difficult for Madrid at the Bernabeu. Zidane is expecting an even bigger threat from Sunday’s opponents, who look a far stronger outfit under new coach Marcelino.
“They defend well and are very well organised on the pitch but we’re motivated for the game, just like we are in every game and against every opponent.”
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