Rafa Benítez faced the media after Real Madrid’s final game in Australia against Manchester City. He spoke about Sergio Ramos’ situation ("I’m sure he’ll stay") and gave no clues about the possibility that David de Gea could be joining: "I don’t usually speak to van Gaal everyday".
Comfortable win: "The team put in a good game in attack and in defence we did quite well at the back. But as I keep saying, this is the pre-season; we are in a phase of preparation. But seeing the team ordered and maintaining a good level is always pleasing".
Quality opposition: "City started their pre-season before us but it’s the same for them – they are still in pre-season too. What counts at the moment are the small details – the things we have been working on in training. The key is that we have quality players; if the team is solid in defence, we can capitalize on our quality in attack".
Bale and Cristiano switching position: "The idea is that both of them have freedom and they can adapt to each other. In defence we did quite well, I wasn’t happy with the goal we conceded because we should have done much better in avoiding that. During the second half, in general, we didn’t really have many moments of danger to deal with".
Keylor Navas, first choice: "We wanted to give him the opportunity to play and feel comfortable and he did well. We see how Casilla gets on. He’s joined us practically without any preparation and we’ll take a look at him in China, there’s no rush".
Modric, taken off with pains: "Almost everyone is suffering a bit of tiredness but the substitutions make it possible for everyone to play and rest".
Asian tour: "In my experience, long-haul trips are usually bring complications and that’s why it has been important to work hard here in Australia. The conditions have been very good. Now it will be a bit harder as we’ll be travelling every three days in China, where it is currently very hot and humid. It was important for us to complete our first objectives in Australia".
Sergio Ramos: "A while ago, when I first arrived, I spoke to Iker and to Sergio and I knew their situations. They also knew my opinion. Sergio has known since the first day that I want him to stay and I’m sure he will
De Gea? "I don’t know, he’s not here, he’s not a Madrid player and so I don’t know. I don’t usually speak to van Gaal everyday. In every game I have a goalkeeper and I am happy".
Cristiano: "Whoever has played football and understand what goes on in training can see that he is a player who is committed, active and scores goals".