Real Madrid will attack Atalanta in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg in Italy and go all out for victory despite missing close to half of their squad due to injury, coach Zinedine Zidane said.

Real are missing nine first-team players including captain Sergio Ramos, record signing Eden Hazard and top scorer Karim Benzema but have managed to overcome their injury problems in recent league matches, winning their last four outings.

"We're focusing on the players we do have available and we're going to prepare the game well and try to win it. We always go out on to the pitch to win, we never accept anything else," Zidane told a news conference on Tuesday.

"We know there's a second leg to come but we're only focused on tomorrow's game. We want to keep up our run of form and we know how difficult the game will be but we're concentrated and committed to putting in a good performance."

Zidane added that there was "no reasonable explanation" for the club's litany of injuries.

"We didn't have a pre-season campaign but neither did anyone else and we have had a lot of absences. But we'll compete with the players we do have and we're ready for the game," he said.

Real Madrid have not got past the Champions League last 16 since winning the competition for a third time in a row in 2018, going out to Ajax Amsterdam in 2019 and Manchester City last year.

Zidane likened Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta side to the Ajax team that took the Champions League by storm two years ago, saying they were "a very attacking team, physically strong and who do many things well".

"Gasperini was the Juventus youth coach when I played for them and he has done a great job, I love him as a coach," added the Frenchman.

Real Madrid will attack Atalanta in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg in Italy and go all out for victory despite missing close to half of their squad due to injury, coach Zinedine Zidane said.

Real Madrid will attack Atalanta in Wednesday's Champions League last-16 first leg in Italy and go all out for victory despite missing close to half of their squad due to injury, coach Zinedine Zidane said. Real are missing nine first-team players including captain Sergio Ramos, record signing Eden Hazard and top scorer Karim Benzema but have managed to overcome their injury problems in recent league matches, winning their last four outings. "We're focusing on the players we do have available and we're going to prepare the game well and try to win it. We always go out on to the pitch to win, we never accept anything else," Zidane told a news conference on Tuesday. "We know there's a second leg to come but we're only focused on tomorrow's game. We want to keep up our run of form and we know how difficult the game will be but we're concentrated and committed to putting in a good performance." Zidane added that there was "no reasonable explanation" for the club's litany of injuries. "We didn't have a pre-season campaign but neither did anyone else and we have had a lot of absences. But we'll compete with the players we do have and we're ready for the game," he said. Real Madrid have not got past the Champions League last 16 since winning the competition for a third time in a row in 2018, going out to Ajax Amsterdam in 2019 and Manchester City last year. Zidane likened Gian Piero Gasperini's Atalanta side to the Ajax team that took the Champions League by storm two years ago, saying they were "a very attacking team, physically strong and who do many things well". "Gasperini was the Juventus youth coach when I played for them and he has done a great job, I love him as a coach," added the Frenchman.

Real Madrid to go all out for win at Atalanta despite injuries, says Zidane

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.&nbsp;

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Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand.&nbsp;

Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. &nbsp;

"What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca.

"I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect.

"We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season.

"Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back."

Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month.&nbsp;

"I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race.

Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane on Friday hit out at club's critics urging them to respect him and his players and said that the team is still in the title race. ALSO READ: Leicester's Jamie Vardy available for Sunday clash after hernia surgery Defending champions Real are, currently, third in the La Liga table with a gap of 10 points with Atletico, who still have a game in hand. Former French star lost his cool in a recent press conference after questions regarding his future in the club were asked. "What makes me laugh is you ask me why I might be annoyed (at questions over his future)," he said ahead of Saturday's visit to basement club Huesca. "I don't deserve to be treated like that by the press. We won the league last season and I'd hope for a bit of respect. "We've earned the right to fight for La Liga this season, at least give us the season. Next season, there'll need to be changes, but this year let us, the team who won the league last season, fight for it this year, too. It wasn't 10 years ago, it was last season. "Just show us a little bit of respect for what we've achieved. You (the press) say a lot. Why don't you tell me to my face that you want me out of the club, not just behind my back." Zidane is facing media after recovering from coronavirus after testing positive last month. "I've been locked in a cage for two weeks, I can't wait to get out and show that I'm going to fight until the end," he said.

'I don't deserve to be treated like that': Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane loses cool

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.&nbsp;

Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury.

Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt.

The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday.&nbsp;

"The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone."

Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half.&nbsp;

"He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us."

Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival.&nbsp;

The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros.&nbsp;

"We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more."

Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack.&nbsp;

There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth.&nbsp;

Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post.&nbsp;

Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner.&nbsp;

Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho.&nbsp;

Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner.

Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third.

The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches.

Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes.

Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.&nbsp;

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19.

Eden Hazard scored one goal and set up another as Real Madrid thrashed Alaves 4-1 on Saturday to ease the pressure on their coach Zinedine Zidane, who was absent after testing positive for Covid-19. Zidane's position has come under scrutiny again after Wednesday's defeat by third-tier side Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey but Madrid responded at Mendizorroza without their coach, or their captain Sergio Ramos, who was out with a knee injury. Goals from Casemiro, Karim Benzema and Hazard put Madrid three up at half-time and while Alaves briefly threatened a fightback when Joselu headed in, Benzema added a second to put the result beyond doubt. The victory is only Real Madrid's second in six matches and leaves them four points behind Atletico Madrid, who have two games in hand and play Valencia at home on Sunday. "The goals are good for the confidence, for everyone," said Benzema. "It's been a tough week for us because we always have to win, always have to be on the up. There's always pressure. Today it went well, not just for me, for everyone." Zidane was confirmed to have tested positive on Friday, leaving his assistant David Bettoni to take charge in the dug-out, although Bettoni was pictured on the telephone in the second half. "He was very happy with the attitude of the team," said Bettoni when asked what Zidane had told him after the game. "He told me to congratulate the players, as he would have done if he was with us." Bettoni took off Hazard as Alaves were gaining belief early in the second period but the Belgian enjoyed a positive outing overall that Zidane will hope is the start of a revival. The 29-year-old has had a nightmare year and a half in Spain, with this only his third goal in La Liga and his first in the league away from home since joining from Chelsea for 100 million euros. "We have to have more patience, it's true that at Real Madrid patience is difficult," said Bettoni. "I think the best version of Hazard has been seen a little today and that every game we'll see it a bit more." Benzema was the chief beneficiary as Madrid forgot their recent woes in attack. There were strong performances too from Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric in midfield, the latter providing a handful of supreme passes, one of which led to Benzema's second and Madrid's fourth. Madrid's first half was probably their best of the season, prompted by an early goal from Casemiro to boost confidence, the Brazilian heading Kroos' corner inside the post. Hazard scuffed a chance wide but was involved in the second as he tried to flick Lucas Vazquez's pass into Benzema but feathering it was enough, with Benzema given space to fire into the top left-hand corner. Hazard made it three four minutes later. Kroos looked up and as Alaves pushed out, Hazard surged in behind, the ball looping over for him to control and finish past Fernando Pachecho. Alaves pushed hard after half-time and were given hope when Joselu headed in from Lucas Perez's free-kick. Yet the comeback was short-lived as Benzema raced onto another curling Modric pass out to the left, nipped inside and stroked into the far corner. Earlier, Youssef En-Nesyri scored his second hat-trick in four games as Sevilla dispatched Cadiz 3-0 to move up to third. The Moroccan striker's treble takes him level with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the top of the league's scoring charts with 11 goals and makes it seven for him in the last four matches. Cadiz, meanwhile, slip to ninth, below Real Betis, who came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw at Real Sociedad by scoring twice in the last five minutes. Real Sociedad drop to sixth, three points adrift of Barca in fourth. Betis climb to eighth.

Hazard leads Real Madrid to Alaves rout to relieve pressure on Zidane

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday.

The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit.

"Real Madrid C.F. report that our coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19," the club said in a statement.

Zidane already had to self-isolate this month after coming into contact with a person infected with the virus.

He tested negative at the time and was able to oversee the team.

After successive defeats in the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey, the second a shock loss to third-tier Alcoyano, Zidane is again under pressure as Real Madrid try to reignite their La Liga title challenge away to Alaves.

Zidane's side are playing catch-up to Atletico Madrid after draws against struggling Elche and Osasuna, two of the league's bottom three, in recent weeks.

Alaves beat Madrid 2-1 in the capital in late November but have won just once in eight matches since, their slide into a relegation scrap costing coach Pablo Machin his job last week with former Spain international Abelardo Fernandez returning to take charge.

Real assistant coach David Bettoni said that Zidane was "fine" after his positive test, although "sad" not to be among the players.

"I spoke with the coach this morning and he is fine," said Bettoni.

"He was a little sad this morning not to be with us. He will not physically be with us, but we all know that he will be with us supporting.

"He will not be with us physically during tomorrow's game, but he will be with us to support the players, give his energy and help everyone."

Bettoni also played down talk of Zidane's future after their Copa del Rey embarrassment.

"You know the boss, he likes football, it's his passion. He is fortunate to coach this great club. In football it is a complicated time, but he is in good spirits," said Bettoni.

"I see him every morning with a smile, with joy, wanting to train. We want to carry on, we are fortunate to train at this club, so we enjoy them every day with our players."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday. The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19, the Spanish club announced Friday. The positive test comes a day before Madrid travel to Alaves in La Liga seeking to bounce back from an embarrassing midweek Copa del Rey exit. "Real Madrid C.F. report that our coach Zinedine Zidane has tested positive for Covid-19," the club said in a statement. Zidane already had to self-isolate this month after coming into contact with a person infected with the virus. He tested negative at the time and was able to oversee the team. After successive defeats in the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey, the second a shock loss to third-tier Alcoyano, Zidane is again under pressure as Real Madrid try to reignite their La Liga title challenge away to Alaves. Zidane's side are playing catch-up to Atletico Madrid after draws against struggling Elche and Osasuna, two of the league's bottom three, in recent weeks. Alaves beat Madrid 2-1 in the capital in late November but have won just once in eight matches since, their slide into a relegation scrap costing coach Pablo Machin his job last week with former Spain international Abelardo Fernandez returning to take charge. Real assistant coach David Bettoni said that Zidane was "fine" after his positive test, although "sad" not to be among the players. "I spoke with the coach this morning and he is fine," said Bettoni. "He was a little sad this morning not to be with us. He will not physically be with us, but we all know that he will be with us supporting. "He will not be with us physically during tomorrow's game, but he will be with us to support the players, give his energy and help everyone." Bettoni also played down talk of Zidane's future after their Copa del Rey embarrassment. "You know the boss, he likes football, it's his passion. He is fortunate to coach this great club. In football it is a complicated time, but he is in good spirits," said Bettoni. "I see him every morning with a smile, with joy, wanting to train. We want to carry on, we are fortunate to train at this club, so we enjoy them every day with our players."

Real Madrid coach Zidane positive for Covid-19: club

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future.&nbsp;

Humiliated in the cup by Segunda B's Alcoyano, a week after being outfought and largely outplayed in the Spanish Super Cup by Athletic Bilbao, Madrid find themselves in another slump.&nbsp;

Their season might well finish without a trophy, with Atletico Madrid marching on in La Liga and Europe's elite stretching the gap even further away from Spain's once formidable trio in the Champions League.&nbsp;

But more worrying is that this appears to be a squad now in desperate need of renovation and a team shorn of the strengths that took them to the title only six months ago.&nbsp;

The question is whether Zidane is the person for a rebuild, or even now if he wants to be. Asked if he still has the backing of the players on Wednesday, Zidane said: "I believe so, you have to ask them. We've done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work.&nbsp;

"Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can't answer that."

Zidane has never been a coach to impose a clear identity, his numerous successes drawing suspicion in part because they seemed to arrive from nowhere, without a crescendo to give them more credibility.&nbsp;

But they were always built on a solid defence, a dependable core and a relentless will to win that meant close games became narrow victories and pressure periods brought a reaction.&nbsp;

Zidane needs another reaction now, starting at Mendizorrotza against Alaves on Saturday, like when Madrid won the Clasico at Camp Nou in October, and rattled off six victories on the bounce in December, each time after their coach's position had come under scrutiny.&nbsp;

The difference this time is not just the scale of the failure against Alcoyano - who have not played in the top flight in half a century - but that it left Zidane accused of ignoring the future too.&nbsp;

His reliance on a select core was underlined by the poor performances of fringe players like Isco, Marcelo and Eder Militao, who looked short of sharpness and, perhaps, motivation.

Even more jarring for those higher up the club may have been the struggles of Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde and Alvaro Odriozola, youngsters once circled as players that could be part of a new era.

And what about those not there? Luka Jovic was sent back on loan to Eintracht Frankfurt and scored twice for them in 28 minutes.

Or Martin Odegaard, who was recalled early from his loan at Real Sociedad only to be left searching this month for another exit. Sergio Reguilon is at Tottenham, Dani Ceballos at Arsenal.

Zidane has decelerated the transition, perhaps because it was by relying on the old guard that Real Madrid beat Barcelona to the league last term.

And when Zidane demanded change in the summer of 2019, his first transfer window after coming back, it was the club that failed to deliver.

Eden Hazard, Jovic, Ferland Mendy, Militao and Rodrygo were signed for around 300 million euros but only Mendy at left-back has consistently improved the first team. Zidane's priorities, like Paul Pogba, were overlooked.

Nobody could have predicted those arrivals would have to last Real Madrid two seasons, the pandemic strangling the club financially meaning there were no new signings last year.

But their lack of impact has been laid bare, the price of failing to update growing ever more costly.

Zidane has always been trusted to pull Madrid out of a mess but never to build something new. When they won the title last season, it papered over the cracks, a testament to his ability to manage and motivate but the need for renewal remained.

Zidane wanted change in exchange for coming back. The change the club is now pondering is their coach.

<h2>Fixtures&nbsp;(all times GMT)</h2>

Friday

Levante v Real Sociedad (2100)

Saturday

Huesca v Villarreal (1400), Sevilla v Cadiz (1615), Real Sociedad v Real Betis (1830), Alaves v Real Madrid (2100)

Sunday

Osasuna v Granada (1400), Elche v Barcelona (1615), Celta Vigo v Eibar (1830), Atletico Madrid (2100)

Monday

Athletic Club v Getafe

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future.

Real Madrid's trust in Zinedine Zidane is being tested again after embarrassment in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday sparked fresh concerns about the club's present and future. Humiliated in the cup by Segunda B's Alcoyano, a week after being outfought and largely outplayed in the Spanish Super Cup by Athletic Bilbao, Madrid find themselves in another slump. Their season might well finish without a trophy, with Atletico Madrid marching on in La Liga and Europe's elite stretching the gap even further away from Spain's once formidable trio in the Champions League. But more worrying is that this appears to be a squad now in desperate need of renovation and a team shorn of the strengths that took them to the title only six months ago. The question is whether Zidane is the person for a rebuild, or even now if he wants to be. Asked if he still has the backing of the players on Wednesday, Zidane said: "I believe so, you have to ask them. We've done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work. "Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can't answer that." Zidane has never been a coach to impose a clear identity, his numerous successes drawing suspicion in part because they seemed to arrive from nowhere, without a crescendo to give them more credibility. But they were always built on a solid defence, a dependable core and a relentless will to win that meant close games became narrow victories and pressure periods brought a reaction. Zidane needs another reaction now, starting at Mendizorrotza against Alaves on Saturday, like when Madrid won the Clasico at Camp Nou in October, and rattled off six victories on the bounce in December, each time after their coach's position had come under scrutiny. The difference this time is not just the scale of the failure against Alcoyano - who have not played in the top flight in half a century - but that it left Zidane accused of ignoring the future too. His reliance on a select core was underlined by the poor performances of fringe players like Isco, Marcelo and Eder Militao, who looked short of sharpness and, perhaps, motivation. Even more jarring for those higher up the club may have been the struggles of Vinicius Junior, Fede Valverde and Alvaro Odriozola, youngsters once circled as players that could be part of a new era. And what about those not there? Luka Jovic was sent back on loan to Eintracht Frankfurt and scored twice for them in 28 minutes. Or Martin Odegaard, who was recalled early from his loan at Real Sociedad only to be left searching this month for another exit. Sergio Reguilon is at Tottenham, Dani Ceballos at Arsenal. Zidane has decelerated the transition, perhaps because it was by relying on the old guard that Real Madrid beat Barcelona to the league last term. And when Zidane demanded change in the summer of 2019, his first transfer window after coming back, it was the club that failed to deliver. Eden Hazard, Jovic, Ferland Mendy, Militao and Rodrygo were signed for around 300 million euros but only Mendy at left-back has consistently improved the first team. Zidane's priorities, like Paul Pogba, were overlooked. Nobody could have predicted those arrivals would have to last Real Madrid two seasons, the pandemic strangling the club financially meaning there were no new signings last year. But their lack of impact has been laid bare, the price of failing to update growing ever more costly. Zidane has always been trusted to pull Madrid out of a mess but never to build something new. When they won the title last season, it papered over the cracks, a testament to his ability to manage and motivate but the need for renewal remained. Zidane wanted change in exchange for coming back. The change the club is now pondering is their coach. Fixtures (all times GMT) Friday Levante v Real Sociedad (2100) Saturday Huesca v Villarreal (1400), Sevilla v Cadiz (1615), Real Sociedad v Real Betis (1830), Alaves v Real Madrid (2100) Sunday Osasuna v Granada (1400), Elche v Barcelona (1615), Celta Vigo v Eibar (1830), Atletico Madrid (2100) Monday Athletic Club v Getafe

Resistance to change leaves Madrid and Zidane pondering futures again

Spanish giants Real Madrid crashed out of the Copa del Ray after a disappointing loss to third-tier club Alcoyano on Wednesday raising many questions on Zidane's style of management at the Bernabeu. However, the French coach insisted his players still believe in him despite the loss.

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Defending league champions Real Madrid were beaten 2-1 by Alcoyano after an outstanding winner despite being reduced to 10-men during the injury time.&nbsp;

When asked if he still had the backing of the players, Zidane said: “Yes I believe so, you have to ask them. We’ve done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work. Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can’t answer that.”

In the last five games, Zinedine Zidane's team has won just once. He took responsibility for the defeat.

“I’m the coach, it’s my fault,” he said. “I am responsible, the players have tried but well, we’re out.”

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During the post-match press conference, many asked whether this was the most disgraceful defeat of all, to which he replied: “All defeats hurt. I don’t like to lose and the players neither. We were playing a Segunda B side and we should have won, but it’s not a disgrace. This can happen. These are things that happen in a player’s career. It’s a tough day, but we’re not going to go crazy. We’ll think about this and work hard.”

Real Madrid's defeat came in Alcoyano's home ground (El Collao stadium) that holds less than 5,000 spectators.The third-tier club has failed to feature in La Liga (Spain's top-flight league) since 1951. &nbsp;

Spanish giants Real Madrid crashed out of the Copa del Ray after a disappointing loss to third-tier club Alcoyano on Wednesday raising many questions on Zidane's style of management at the Bernabeu.

Spanish giants Real Madrid crashed out of the Copa del Ray after a disappointing loss to third-tier club Alcoyano on Wednesday raising many questions on Zidane's style of management at the Bernabeu. However, the French coach insisted his players still believe in him despite the loss. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Josef Bican and becomes greatest ever goal-scorer Defending league champions Real Madrid were beaten 2-1 by Alcoyano after an outstanding winner despite being reduced to 10-men during the injury time. When asked if he still had the backing of the players, Zidane said: “Yes I believe so, you have to ask them. We’ve done good things this season, apart from the last four games. Now we have La Liga and the Champions League and we have to work. Whether my message gets through, you have to ask them, I can’t answer that.” In the last five games, Zinedine Zidane's team has won just once. He took responsibility for the defeat. “I’m the coach, it’s my fault,” he said. “I am responsible, the players have tried but well, we’re out.” ALSO READ: Will PSG sign Lionel Messi? Mauricio Pochettino opens up about the move During the post-match press conference, many asked whether this was the most disgraceful defeat of all, to which he replied: “All defeats hurt. I don’t like to lose and the players neither. We were playing a Segunda B side and we should have won, but it’s not a disgrace. This can happen. These are things that happen in a player’s career. It’s a tough day, but we’re not going to go crazy. We’ll think about this and work hard.” Real Madrid's defeat came in Alcoyano's home ground (El Collao stadium) that holds less than 5,000 spectators.The third-tier club has failed to feature in La Liga (Spain's top-flight league) since 1951.

'I believe so': Zidane says still has players’ backing despite Real Madrid Copa del Ray humiliation

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said.

The Frenchman had been self-isolating since Thursday after contact with a person infected with the virus.

"He's negative and the league have given him their okay," the source told AFP.

Real Madrid are second in La Liga after a run of seven wins in eight games, including a crucial win over leaders Atletico Madrid who are two points ahead with two games in hand.

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said.

Zinedine Zidane has tested negative for Covid-19 and has been given the green light to oversee Real Madrid's game at Osasuna on Saturday, a source at the club said. The Frenchman had been self-isolating since Thursday after contact with a person infected with the virus. "He's negative and the league have given him their okay," the source told AFP. Real Madrid are second in La Liga after a run of seven wins in eight games, including a crucial win over leaders Atletico Madrid who are two points ahead with two games in hand.

Real Madrid coach Zidane gets Covid clearance

Real Madrid's 1-1 draw against Elche on Wednesday left Zinedine Zidane fuming as the Spanish giants slipped two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid.

"Well it's true, based on how we were playing recently, today's draw is possibly not as good a result. I think we had more than enough chances to get the second goal, which would have allowed us to play a bit calmer on the ball and their equaliser made the game a lot more complicated for us as they sat a bit deeper as well and we struggled in the second half."&nbsp;

"But this is football and I can't say anything really, to be honest. We now have to keep working hard. It's two points that when you look at how we played in the first half I think we lost today but we have to keep going forward," he added.&nbsp;

Modric's header in the first half put Madrid in front, however, Elche's Fidel Chaves equalised in the second half with a penalty.&nbsp;

La Liga defending champions lost two crucial points due to the draw.&nbsp;

"But of course everyone has to have a very good second leg of the season and it has to be nearly perfect. I think every single team is going to drop points. It's a very complicated league, it's a very difficult league and I think we're doing things as well. We've had quite a few very good games and today we lost two points but you're mentioning the title and there's still a lot to play. I do think there is still a lot to go," Zidane said.&nbsp;

Next up for Real is a home game against in-form Celta Vigo who have won six of their last seven matches and are unbeaten since November 21.

Real Madrid's 1-1 draw against Elche on Wednesday left Zinedine Zidane fuming as the Spanish giants slipped two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid. "Well it's true, based on how we were playing recently, today's draw is possibly not as good a result.

Real Madrid's 1-1 draw against Elche on Wednesday left Zinedine Zidane fuming as the Spanish giants slipped two points behind La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid. "Well it's true, based on how we were playing recently, today's draw is possibly not as good a result. I think we had more than enough chances to get the second goal, which would have allowed us to play a bit calmer on the ball and their equaliser made the game a lot more complicated for us as they sat a bit deeper as well and we struggled in the second half." "But this is football and I can't say anything really, to be honest. We now have to keep working hard. It's two points that when you look at how we played in the first half I think we lost today but we have to keep going forward," he added. Modric's header in the first half put Madrid in front, however, Elche's Fidel Chaves equalised in the second half with a penalty. La Liga defending champions lost two crucial points due to the draw. "But of course everyone has to have a very good second leg of the season and it has to be nearly perfect. I think every single team is going to drop points. It's a very complicated league, it's a very difficult league and I think we're doing things as well. We've had quite a few very good games and today we lost two points but you're mentioning the title and there's still a lot to play. I do think there is still a lot to go," Zidane said. Next up for Real is a home game against in-form Celta Vigo who have won six of their last seven matches and are unbeaten since November 21.

'I think we lost today': Zidane left fuming as Real Madrid draws with Elche

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk.

A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B.&nbsp;

If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out.

Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’.

The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure.

Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez.

"Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future.&nbsp;

"You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid."

<h2>- Ramos returns -</h2>

However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years.&nbsp;

He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence.

Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations.

Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October.

"The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said.

"Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency."

Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead.

A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week.

Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future.

After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Real Madrid value success in the Champions League above all else, but the 13-time champions head into Wednesday's game against Borussia Moenchengladbach with their qualification hopes hanging by a thread. Should they suffer a humiliating group stage exit, ending their remarkable run as the only team to ever avoid elimination at this phase, coach Zinedine Zidane’s future will be at risk. A win for either side in the Spanish capital will guarantee them passage through to the last 16 from Group B. If Madrid draw and Shakhtar win or draw with Inter Milan in the other group match, the Spanish giants will be out. Reports in the Spanish capital have linked Madrid with former Tottenham coach Mauricio Pochettino, currently without a club, should they part ways with Zidane, while Real Madrid Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez, a prolific striker for the club in the past, has been touted as a 'plan B’. The Frenchman’s predecessor Santiago Solari was sacked after the humiliating last-16 exit against Ajax in the Champions League in 2019, paving the way for him to return just 10 months after his sudden departure. Last season’s elimination at the same phase by Manchester City was mitigated by the team’s strong domestic performance, as they ground their way to the Spanish title, but another early failure in Europe may prove to be the final straw for trigger-happy president Florentino Perez. "Zizou is a magnificent coach, a good friend and will do everything possible to have Madrid in the best position possible,” said former Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defending the coach against the mounting speculation over his future. "You cannot live in the past, but he has earned the right to lead Madrid." - Ramos returns - However, despite his success during two stints in charge, winning three Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles and two Club World Cups among other silverware, and his fine history as a player, a defeat could make Zidane Madrid’s eighth managerial casualty in 10 years. He is at least boosted by the return of captain Sergio Ramos and right back Dani Carvajal. The Spanish duo are important parts of Madrid’s defence. Ramos in particular is essential, with Madrid having lost eight of their last 10 European games in which the 35-year-old has not played, including the Ajax and Manchester City eliminations. Zidane got a boost after a narrow 1-0 victory over Sevilla on Saturday, Real's first Liga win since October. "The last few days have been very tough but this team has a lot of character and loves challenges,” Zidane said. "Today's win is very important for what is coming next. We know when we don’t play well we will be criticised but we have to focus on the positives and keep trying to find consistency." Madrid almost fell to defeat in Germany in October but last-gasp goals from Karim Benzema and Casemiro helped them earn a 2-2 draw after Marcus Thuram’s double put Gladbach ahead. A pair of wins against Antonio Conte’s underwhelming Inter Milan got Madrid back on track but a dismal 2-0 away defeat by Shakhtar Donetsk at the start of December left Zidane desperately needing a victory this week. Madrid then host league leaders Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, another crucial match in a week which could define the Spanish champions' season, and their coach's future. After the Shakhtar defeat Zidane insisted he had no intention of resigning, but if the team stumble against Marco Rose’s Gladbach, that decision may be taken out of his hands.

Real Madrid and Zidane brace for crucial European night

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane takes his side to Sevilla in La Liga this weekend days insisting he is not planning on resigning despite a disastrous recent run.

Madrid have won just once in La Liga since October and also lost at Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions on Tuesday and must beat Borussia Moenchengladbach next week to advance.

Real have drawn with in-form Villarreal, were edged out at lowly Alaves and were hammered at Valencia since their last league victory leaving the champions in fourth place, seven points off leaders Real Sociedad.&nbsp;

"I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," Zidane said after the loss in Ukraine.

"We have to lift ourselves up and think about the next match. We're on a bad run, there's nothing else to do other than think about the next match and go ahead.

"In difficult moments, you have to show character," he added.

Local press have linked former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino and ex-Madrid forward Raul forward to the Frenchman's job.

According to newspaper AS captain Sergio Ramos called a squad meeting this week, with Zidane absent, telling team-mates to give "an extra push until the end of the year."

"This is Real Madrid, gentlemen. Together, we've come out of worse," Ramos reportedly said ahead of the trip to Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan where they have lost on six of their last eight visits.

Saturday's hosts went unbeaten in the Spanish top-flight throughout November after a sluggish start to the season under former Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui.

Spain playmaker Suso is set to return for the Europa League champions after being sidelined for six weeks with a muscle injury.

<h2>Player to watch: Joao Felix</h2>

The Portugal attacker is on the verge of equalling his last season's goal tally for Atletico Madrid, when he hit nine.

His 126 million euros fee, second for a teenager behind the amount Paris Saint-Germain paid for Kylian Mbappe, put pressure on Felix and he failed to settle in his first campaign in the Spanish capital missing 13 games through injury.

On Saturday, Atletico host 17th-place Real Valladolid and a win could send them top temporarily with Sociedad heading to Alaves a day later.

Fixtures

Friday (all times GMT)

Athletic Bilbao v Celta Vigo (2000)

Saturday

Levante v Getafe (1300), Sevilla v Real Madrid (1515), Atletico Madrid v Real Valladolid (1730), Cadiz v Barcelona (2000)

Sunday

Granada v Huesca (1300), Osasuna v Real Betis (1515), Villarreal v Elche (1730), Deportivo Alaves v Real Sociedad (2000)

Monday

Eibar v Valencia (2000)

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane takes his side to Sevilla in La Liga this weekend days insisting he is not planning on resigning despite a disastrous recent run.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane takes his side to Sevilla in La Liga this weekend days insisting he is not planning on resigning despite a disastrous recent run. Madrid have won just once in La Liga since October and also lost at Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions on Tuesday and must beat Borussia Moenchengladbach next week to advance. Real have drawn with in-form Villarreal, were edged out at lowly Alaves and were hammered at Valencia since their last league victory leaving the champions in fourth place, seven points off leaders Real Sociedad. "I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," Zidane said after the loss in Ukraine. "We have to lift ourselves up and think about the next match. We're on a bad run, there's nothing else to do other than think about the next match and go ahead. "In difficult moments, you have to show character," he added. Local press have linked former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino and ex-Madrid forward Raul forward to the Frenchman's job. According to newspaper AS captain Sergio Ramos called a squad meeting this week, with Zidane absent, telling team-mates to give "an extra push until the end of the year." "This is Real Madrid, gentlemen. Together, we've come out of worse," Ramos reportedly said ahead of the trip to Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan where they have lost on six of their last eight visits. Saturday's hosts went unbeaten in the Spanish top-flight throughout November after a sluggish start to the season under former Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui. Spain playmaker Suso is set to return for the Europa League champions after being sidelined for six weeks with a muscle injury. Player to watch: Joao Felix The Portugal attacker is on the verge of equalling his last season's goal tally for Atletico Madrid, when he hit nine. His 126 million euros fee, second for a teenager behind the amount Paris Saint-Germain paid for Kylian Mbappe, put pressure on Felix and he failed to settle in his first campaign in the Spanish capital missing 13 games through injury. On Saturday, Atletico host 17th-place Real Valladolid and a win could send them top temporarily with Sociedad heading to Alaves a day later. Fixtures Friday (all times GMT) Athletic Bilbao v Celta Vigo (2000) Saturday Levante v Getafe (1300), Sevilla v Real Madrid (1515), Atletico Madrid v Real Valladolid (1730), Cadiz v Barcelona (2000) Sunday Granada v Huesca (1300), Osasuna v Real Betis (1515), Villarreal v Elche (1730), Deportivo Alaves v Real Sociedad (2000) Monday Eibar v Valencia (2000)

Under-fire Zidane asks Madrid players to stand up and be counted

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance.

Substitutes Dentinho and Manor Solomon both scored second-half goals in Kiev as Shakhtar stunned the 13-time European champions again, having already won 3-2 in Madrid in October.

Shakhtar had lost their last two Group B matches against Borussia Moenchengladbach by an aggregate score of 10-0, but this victory allowed them to move above Real into second place in the group with one game remaining.

Gladbach top the section by a point, while Shakhtar now have the upper hand on Real thanks to their superior head-to-head record.

However, Inter Milan's 3-2 win away to Gladbach not only kept the Italians alive, but also limited the damage for Real, who now know a win at home to the Germans next week will take them through, regardless of how Shakhtar fare in their last game.

Madrid have made it out of their group in every year since 1997 and so failure to qualify would be seen as a disaster, but Zidane said he would not leave the club he has so far led to three Champions League triumphs and two La Liga titles over two spells as coach.

"I am not going to resign, not at all," said Zidane. "We are always going to have difficult moments, and we are on a bad run, but we need to keep going."

"I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," added the Frenchman, whose team also lost at the weekend, going down 2-1 at home to Alaves in La Liga.

"We played well and we deserved more. We just need to lift our heads up and think about the next game."

<h2>- Struggles without Ramos -</h2>

Real were returning to the scene of their victory over Liverpool in the 2018 final, but they looked a shadow of their former selves in the cold and the snow in Kiev's Olympic Stadium, and the result further underlined how much they miss defensive talisman Sergio Ramos when he is not there.

This was Real's seventh defeat in the last nine Champions League matches they have played without Ramos, who is currently injured.

Perhaps this game would have turned out differently had Marco Asensio scored in the fifth minute rather than turn Karim Benzema's cross onto the post, but they went on to slump to a third defeat in their last five matches in all competitions.

Dentinho had replaced the injured Junior Moraes in the first half and the Brazilian got the opening goal just before the hour mark.

Ferland Mendy intercepted a Viktor Kovalenko ball into the box but only succeeded in laying it on a plate for Dentinho to tuck past Thibaut Courtois and in.

The Ukrainian champions then made sure of their victory on the counter-attack with eight minutes remaining as Israeli international Solomon picked up the ball on halfway and advanced unchallenged before picking his spot.

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance.

Zinedine Zidane rubbished suggestions he could walk away from Real Madrid and said the Spanish giants did not deserve to lose after going down 2-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, their second defeat by the Ukrainians in this season's Champions League leaving their hopes of reaching the last 16 in the balance. Substitutes Dentinho and Manor Solomon both scored second-half goals in Kiev as Shakhtar stunned the 13-time European champions again, having already won 3-2 in Madrid in October. Shakhtar had lost their last two Group B matches against Borussia Moenchengladbach by an aggregate score of 10-0, but this victory allowed them to move above Real into second place in the group with one game remaining. Gladbach top the section by a point, while Shakhtar now have the upper hand on Real thanks to their superior head-to-head record. However, Inter Milan's 3-2 win away to Gladbach not only kept the Italians alive, but also limited the damage for Real, who now know a win at home to the Germans next week will take them through, regardless of how Shakhtar fare in their last game. Madrid have made it out of their group in every year since 1997 and so failure to qualify would be seen as a disaster, but Zidane said he would not leave the club he has so far led to three Champions League triumphs and two La Liga titles over two spells as coach. "I am not going to resign, not at all," said Zidane. "We are always going to have difficult moments, and we are on a bad run, but we need to keep going." "I have the strength needed to turn the situation around and I am going to give everything to do that, so are the players," added the Frenchman, whose team also lost at the weekend, going down 2-1 at home to Alaves in La Liga. "We played well and we deserved more. We just need to lift our heads up and think about the next game." - Struggles without Ramos - Real were returning to the scene of their victory over Liverpool in the 2018 final, but they looked a shadow of their former selves in the cold and the snow in Kiev's Olympic Stadium, and the result further underlined how much they miss defensive talisman Sergio Ramos when he is not there. This was Real's seventh defeat in the last nine Champions League matches they have played without Ramos, who is currently injured. Perhaps this game would have turned out differently had Marco Asensio scored in the fifth minute rather than turn Karim Benzema's cross onto the post, but they went on to slump to a third defeat in their last five matches in all competitions. Dentinho had replaced the injured Junior Moraes in the first half and the Brazilian got the opening goal just before the hour mark. Ferland Mendy intercepted a Viktor Kovalenko ball into the box but only succeeded in laying it on a plate for Dentinho to tuck past Thibaut Courtois and in. The Ukrainian champions then made sure of their victory on the counter-attack with eight minutes remaining as Israeli international Solomon picked up the ball on halfway and advanced unchallenged before picking his spot.

Zidane determined to turn around Real Madrid slump after latest Shakhtar defeat

From Pochettino to Raul: Potential managers who could replace Zidane in Real Madrid

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Friday denied any problems between forwards Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior after footage emerged at halftime of Tuesday's 2-2 Champions League draw with Borussia Moenchengladbach.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Friday denied any problems between forwards Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior after footage emerged at halftime of Tuesday's 2-2 Champions League draw with Borussia Moenchengladbach. In the footage, Benzema was seen criticising the young Brazilian to defender Ferland Mendy, telling the fullback not to pass to him. Also read: Liverpool's star defender Virgil van Dijk undergoes 'successful' knee surgery "The most important thing is that it's cleared up and that the players sort it out themselves. You say a lot of things on the pitch, but it always stays there," Zidane told a news conference, confirming local media reports that Vinicius and Benzema had buried the hatchet at training on Thursday. "It's good that these kind of things happen, because it means we're alive and in the moment. "They spoke and that's that. This kind of thing happens all the time on the pitch, things get heated. You say things about yourself, others and even me." Hazard donned the white jersey for the first time since August in the game following a lengthy injury, but Zidane said he might resist the temptation to start him in Saturday's meeting at home to minnows Huesca. "He's training well, and things look good. When you get injured it's tough because as a player you just want to play," Zidane said. "We've got a lot of games coming up and the idea is that he's with us for them. We'll see how we manage his game time, but the most-important thing is that he's feeling good. There's lots of games, lots of minutes, to come." (Inputs from Reuters)

'Things get heated': Real Madrid's Zidane on Benzema-Vinicius feud

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem.

Hazard last played for the Spanish champions in August's Champions League loss at Manchester City in his first campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu where he scored just once after suffering various injuries.

"I see him very close, he is as ready as possible, he's training well with the team," Zidane said ahead of Wednesday's home league game against Real Valladolid.

"He trains regularly, and he's doing well, and we'll see how we play him," the Frenchman added.

The former Chelsea attacker has been criticised by local media who claim he was overweight after he joined in July 2019 for a reported fee of 100 million euros ($117 million).

He featured 22 times for Zidane's men after sustaining foot and hamstring issues.

"He has a big problem in that sense where it's bothered him for a long while, but now he seems to be doing better," Zidane said.

"The season is very long and he's a professional. What he wants is to be with his team-mates and help them," he added.

Zidane has made no purchases during the summer with the Spanish transfer window closing on October 5.

Attackers Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez have left Madrid as has left-back Sergio Reguilon.

"I am very happy with what I have," the 48-year-old said. "We already have a lot of players. Why bring more people here? They are all very good, I'm happy, really happy.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said on Tuesday Belgium's Eden Hazard is set to return to play after missing the opening two games of the La Liga season with an ankle problem. Hazard last played for the Spanish champions in August's Champions League loss at Manchester City in his first campaign at the Santiago Bernabeu where he scored just once after suffering various injuries. "I see him very close, he is as ready as possible, he's training well with the team," Zidane said ahead of Wednesday's home league game against Real Valladolid. "He trains regularly, and he's doing well, and we'll see how we play him," the Frenchman added. The former Chelsea attacker has been criticised by local media who claim he was overweight after he joined in July 2019 for a reported fee of 100 million euros ($117 million). He featured 22 times for Zidane's men after sustaining foot and hamstring issues. "He has a big problem in that sense where it's bothered him for a long while, but now he seems to be doing better," Zidane said. "The season is very long and he's a professional. What he wants is to be with his team-mates and help them," he added. Zidane has made no purchases during the summer with the Spanish transfer window closing on October 5. Attackers Gareth Bale and James Rodriguez have left Madrid as has left-back Sergio Reguilon. "I am very happy with what I have," the 48-year-old said. "We already have a lot of players. Why bring more people here? They are all very good, I'm happy, really happy.

Eden Hazard 'ready' for Madrid return, says Zinedine Zidane

Gareth Bale has returned to Tottenham Hotspurs after a seven-year stint with Real Madrid. However, the Welsh star has no regrets leaving the Spanish giants.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disgraceful-gareth-bales-agent-lashes-out-at-real-madrid-fans-329410" hreflang="en">'Disgraceful': Gareth Bale's agent lashes out at Real Madrid fans</a>

"I don't have any regrets, no," Bale, 31, told Sky Sports. "I just try and play, that's all I can do and everything else that's said externally is out of my control." 
&nbsp; 
Bale had a bitter fallout with Zinedine Zidane and perceived lack of commitment and poor injury record.&nbsp;

"Whatever anyone else has said, that's up to them. I know my opinion of myself and my family know exactly what I am, so that's all I'm worried about."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bale-is-back-gareth-bale-returns-to-tottenham-hotspurs-after-7-years-328744" hreflang="en">'Bale is back': Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after 7 years</a>

"Going into a different culture, a different country, I've had to grow up as a person, never mind a footballer."

Bale left the north London club in 2013 for a then-world record 100 million euros ($116.61 million) and went on to win four Champions League titles, and two La Liga crowns with Real, scoring more than 100 goals.

"In the time I've gone away they've gone on and on and reached the Champions League final, the club's got a new stadium, the club itself is better," he said.

"I just want to add to that. I want to try and bring a bit more to the team and try and progress even more, keep pushing in the right direction."

Gareth Bale has returned to Tottenham Hotspurs after a seven-year stint with Real Madrid. However, the Welsh star has no regrets leaving the Spanish giants. Also read: 'Disgraceful': Gareth Bale's agent lashes out at Real Madrid fans "I don't have any regrets, no," Bale, 31, told Sky Sports.

Gareth Bale has returned to Tottenham Hotspurs after a seven-year stint with Real Madrid. However, the Welsh star has no regrets leaving the Spanish giants. Also read: 'Disgraceful': Gareth Bale's agent lashes out at Real Madrid fans "I don't have any regrets, no," Bale, 31, told Sky Sports. "I just try and play, that's all I can do and everything else that's said externally is out of my control." Bale had a bitter fallout with Zinedine Zidane and perceived lack of commitment and poor injury record. "Whatever anyone else has said, that's up to them. I know my opinion of myself and my family know exactly what I am, so that's all I'm worried about." Also read: 'Bale is back': Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after 7 years "Going into a different culture, a different country, I've had to grow up as a person, never mind a footballer." Bale left the north London club in 2013 for a then-world record 100 million euros ($116.61 million) and went on to win four Champions League titles, and two La Liga crowns with Real, scoring more than 100 goals. "In the time I've gone away they've gone on and on and reached the Champions League final, the club's got a new stadium, the club itself is better," he said. "I just want to add to that. I want to try and bring a bit more to the team and try and progress even more, keep pushing in the right direction."

'I don't have any regrets', Gareth Bale on leaving Real Madrid for Spurs

Welsh star Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after spending seven years in Real Madrid. Bale is back in the north London club for a season-long loan.&nbsp;

In 2013, the Welsh left Spurs for Real on a record transfer fee making him the most expensive player on the planet.&nbsp;

He started well for Madrid after scoring crucial goals in major finals. His pace attacks earned him a lot of fans at the Bernabeu.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
To all the Spurs fans, after 7 years, I’m back! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> <a href="https://t.co/NbAaUWefQP">https://t.co/NbAaUWefQP</a> <a href="https://t.co/zGk37PnQe9">pic.twitter.com/zGk37PnQe9</a>
— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethBale11/status/1307364316392415233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The 31-year-old has scored 105 goals for Real Madrid in seven years stint that had a bitter end after his fallout with coach Zinedine Zidane.&nbsp;

His 2019-20 season was the worst for Bale as he played just 20 games under Zidane and questions were asked of his commitment to Real as he was accused of playing golf too much.&nbsp;

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Bale. Is. Back. 
 
Welcome home, <a href="https://twitter.com/GarethBale11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GarethBale11</a> 😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BaleIsBack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BaleIsBack</a> ⚪️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COYS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COYS</a> <a href="https://t.co/iOIWC2ZwtC">pic.twitter.com/iOIWC2ZwtC</a>
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial/status/1307363856151392257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Bale is, however, now back in the Premier League and will be looking to return to his former glory.&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho will eye a top-four finish and few silverware for the club after bolstering his attack by adding Bale.&nbsp;

During his six years with Spurs, Bale smashed 55 goals in 203 appearances. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Welsh star Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after spending seven years in Real Madrid. Bale is back in the north London club for a season-long loan. In 2013, the Welsh left Spurs for Real on a record transfer fee making him the most expensive player on the planet.

Welsh star Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after spending seven years in Real Madrid. Bale is back in the north London club for a season-long loan. In 2013, the Welsh left Spurs for Real on a record transfer fee making him the most expensive player on the planet. He started well for Madrid after scoring crucial goals in major finals. His pace attacks earned him a lot of fans at the Bernabeu. To all the Spurs fans, after 7 years, I’m back! #COYS @SpursOfficial https://t.co/NbAaUWefQP pic.twitter.com/zGk37PnQe9 — Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) September 19, 2020 × The 31-year-old has scored 105 goals for Real Madrid in seven years stint that had a bitter end after his fallout with coach Zinedine Zidane. His 2019-20 season was the worst for Bale as he played just 20 games under Zidane and questions were asked of his commitment to Real as he was accused of playing golf too much. Bale. Is. Back. Welcome home, @GarethBale11 😍 #BaleIsBack ⚪️ #COYS pic.twitter.com/iOIWC2ZwtC — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) September 19, 2020 × Bale is, however, now back in the Premier League and will be looking to return to his former glory. Jose Mourinho will eye a top-four finish and few silverware for the club after bolstering his attack by adding Bale. During his six years with Spurs, Bale smashed 55 goals in 203 appearances.

'Bale is back': Gareth Bale returns to Tottenham Hotspurs after 7 years

Real Madrid's much-talked striker Gareth Bale has been the talking point on Social Media for his awkwardness during the club's cup celebrations.&nbsp; 
Real Madrid just secured a 34th La Liga victory after beating Villarreal on Thursday. While the players were overjoyed by the league win, Bale seemed uninterested and stood out of the celebrations.&nbsp;

Fans were quick to notice Bale's response and trolled him for his reaction during celebrations.&nbsp;

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What is Bale trying to do here, this guy man 😂😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/nnAV6n8Lxf">pic.twitter.com/nnAV6n8Lxf</a>
— Jeff ³⁴ (@JdristaJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/JdristaJr/status/1283888431236558854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Gareth Bale wins trophies even when he's not interested, there's levels to this game. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/YwzPXFMjzr">pic.twitter.com/YwzPXFMjzr</a>
— Garrix ➐ (@GaryVineger) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryVineger/status/1283884893236232192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Messi sweat all season, scoring freekicks, penalties, running from pole to pole and giving assists yet, Mr. Sleeping Beauty Gareth Bale won the La Liga whiles sleeping all season and playing golf.. 
 
I know who my goat 🐐 is 🤗😂😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/q14BGbK38U">pic.twitter.com/q14BGbK38U</a>
— E go be✌🏾 (Ebube Pidgin P.A) (@josteez_) <a href="https://twitter.com/josteez_/status/1283891946075848705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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One can’t hold his arms when he’s happy .. Bale is offering commiseration it seems <a href="https://t.co/PZ3RI9MUFg">pic.twitter.com/PZ3RI9MUFg</a>
— тнe яιz 🅧 (@Why_Rizmyth) <a href="https://twitter.com/Why_Rizmyth/status/1283975761884581889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Bale has rarely appeared on the pitch following his fallout with coach Zinedine Zidane, so when the manager was being flung in the air by the players, Bale did not look too interested. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Real Madrid's much-talked striker Gareth Bale has been the talking point on Social Media for his awkwardness during the club's cup celebrations. Real Madrid just secured a 34th La Liga victory after beating Villarreal on Thursday.

Real Madrid's much-talked striker Gareth Bale has been the talking point on Social Media for his awkwardness during the club's cup celebrations. Real Madrid just secured a 34th La Liga victory after beating Villarreal on Thursday. While the players were overjoyed by the league win, Bale seemed uninterested and stood out of the celebrations. Fans were quick to notice Bale's response and trolled him for his reaction during celebrations. What is Bale trying to do here, this guy man 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/nnAV6n8Lxf — Jeff ³⁴ (@JdristaJr) July 16, 2020 × Gareth Bale wins trophies even when he's not interested, there's levels to this game. #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/YwzPXFMjzr — Garrix ➐ (@GaryVineger) July 16, 2020 × Messi sweat all season, scoring freekicks, penalties, running from pole to pole and giving assists yet, Mr. Sleeping Beauty Gareth Bale won the La Liga whiles sleeping all season and playing golf.. I know who my goat 🐐 is 🤗😂😂😂#HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/q14BGbK38U — E go be✌🏾 (Ebube Pidgin P.A) (@josteez_) July 16, 2020 × One can’t hold his arms when he’s happy .. Bale is offering commiseration it seems pic.twitter.com/PZ3RI9MUFg — тнe яιz 🅧 (@Why_Rizmyth) July 17, 2020 × Bale has rarely appeared on the pitch following his fallout with coach Zinedine Zidane, so when the manager was being flung in the air by the players, Bale did not look too interested.

Netizens troll 'awkward' Gareth Bale during Real Madrid's cup celebrations

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach.

And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised.

On Thursday, in an empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at Real Madrid's training ground, he hoisted another trophy, his second in La Liga and 11th overall as coach.

Zidane currently wins a trophy every 19 games on average and while three Champions League titles out of three was historic, this might be his most impressive yet.

When he was reappointed in March last year, Madrid president Florentino Perez said Zidane had come again to launch "a glorious new era".

But standing next to him was Madrid's third coach of the season, taking over a team 12 points behind Barcelona, having just been knocked out and outplayed by Ajax in the Champions League.

Most thought it was a mistake, the coach that had gone out on the highest of highs returning to a team in tatters.

Cristiano Ronaldo was gone and it seemed those that remained had lost the hunger. "We will change things, for sure, and for the years to come," Zidane said.

Change, though, would have to wait and then it never really came at all.&nbsp;Zidane saw out a miserable 11 games of last season where performances grew worse not better.

Anticipation of a summer overhaul increased as Madrid's newspapers published polls revelling in which of the world's best players should arrive.

Kylian Mbappe or Neymar? "I would like them both," said Perez.

Zidane did not want them all but there was one he desperately wanted, Manchester United's Paul Pogba, who he was convinced could change everything.

Yet Pogba stayed put and so too did Gareth Bale, who Zidane was assured would be sold. "It would be best for everyone," he said.

Hazard did sign, for 100 million euros, but arrived overweight and then got injured, the opening sequence of his nightmare first year in Spain.

Instead of a sparkling new era, Zidane was handed more of the same but when the inevitable questions came about broken promises, he refused to stoke the fire.

"The decisions that are up to me are on the pitch," he said.

The trouble was those were no better. Draws against Valladolid and Villarreal were followed by humiliation in Paris. Defeat by Real Mallorca in October left Zidane on the brink of the sack.

"I know how this works," said Zidane, with Jose Mourinho ready, but perhaps that jolted the players, who beat Galatasaray 1-0 and began to turn the tide.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Zidane grows bolder -</h2>

&nbsp;

Zidane escaped and grew bolder. Fede Valverde came into his midfield and proved the catalyst for change, the Uruguayan bringing dynamism and chaos to an all-too predictable midfield.

"He's amazing," said Kroos. "I love this player."

The defence tightened too, conceding nine goals during a crucial run of 21 games unbeaten either side of Christmas.

Ferland Mendy proved a more reliable alternative to Marcelo at left-back while in goal, Thibaut Courtois blossomed.

“Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now," Zidane said.

In attack, he trusted two young Brazilians, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, and between them, Karim Benzema found arguably the best form of his entire career.

"My job is to transmit a sense of calm in the difficult moments," he said. "To be quiet, patient and positive."

That ability to exude confidence and diffuse pressure appeared even more valuable as Barcelona descended into turmoil and sacked Ernesto Valverde, the coach that at least kept the team happy, and winning.

And when the coronavirus pandemic hit, Madrid's players reacted better, coming back revitalised, more determined than ever that an 11-match sprint would end with a trophy.&nbsp;

"After lockdown there was something very particular," said Zidane on Wednesday. "I could see it in training. The players wanted something."

Zidane had a bigger squad than Barcelona's but his willingness to rotate became key.

Tournaments have also been his strength and perhaps he rekindled that mentality. With no time for training, the message was simple: Win.

In that sense, Zidane has silenced the doubters, even if it remains to be seen whether he can rebuild a team or replicate his success elsewhere.

But just as this Madrid were a mess without him, with him they are celebrating again.

Few expected him there but Zidane was right in his first press conference. "Change is for the future," he said. "The important thing is I'm back."

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach. And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised.

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach. And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised. On Thursday, in an empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at Real Madrid's training ground, he hoisted another trophy, his second in La Liga and 11th overall as coach. Zidane currently wins a trophy every 19 games on average and while three Champions League titles out of three was historic, this might be his most impressive yet. When he was reappointed in March last year, Madrid president Florentino Perez said Zidane had come again to launch "a glorious new era". But standing next to him was Madrid's third coach of the season, taking over a team 12 points behind Barcelona, having just been knocked out and outplayed by Ajax in the Champions League. Most thought it was a mistake, the coach that had gone out on the highest of highs returning to a team in tatters. Cristiano Ronaldo was gone and it seemed those that remained had lost the hunger. "We will change things, for sure, and for the years to come," Zidane said. Change, though, would have to wait and then it never really came at all. Zidane saw out a miserable 11 games of last season where performances grew worse not better. Anticipation of a summer overhaul increased as Madrid's newspapers published polls revelling in which of the world's best players should arrive. Kylian Mbappe or Neymar? "I would like them both," said Perez. Zidane did not want them all but there was one he desperately wanted, Manchester United's Paul Pogba, who he was convinced could change everything. Yet Pogba stayed put and so too did Gareth Bale, who Zidane was assured would be sold. "It would be best for everyone," he said. Hazard did sign, for 100 million euros, but arrived overweight and then got injured, the opening sequence of his nightmare first year in Spain. Instead of a sparkling new era, Zidane was handed more of the same but when the inevitable questions came about broken promises, he refused to stoke the fire. "The decisions that are up to me are on the pitch," he said. The trouble was those were no better. Draws against Valladolid and Villarreal were followed by humiliation in Paris. Defeat by Real Mallorca in October left Zidane on the brink of the sack. "I know how this works," said Zidane, with Jose Mourinho ready, but perhaps that jolted the players, who beat Galatasaray 1-0 and began to turn the tide. - Zidane grows bolder - Zidane escaped and grew bolder. Fede Valverde came into his midfield and proved the catalyst for change, the Uruguayan bringing dynamism and chaos to an all-too predictable midfield. "He's amazing," said Kroos. "I love this player." The defence tightened too, conceding nine goals during a crucial run of 21 games unbeaten either side of Christmas. Ferland Mendy proved a more reliable alternative to Marcelo at left-back while in goal, Thibaut Courtois blossomed. “Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now," Zidane said. In attack, he trusted two young Brazilians, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, and between them, Karim Benzema found arguably the best form of his entire career. "My job is to transmit a sense of calm in the difficult moments," he said. "To be quiet, patient and positive." That ability to exude confidence and diffuse pressure appeared even more valuable as Barcelona descended into turmoil and sacked Ernesto Valverde, the coach that at least kept the team happy, and winning. And when the coronavirus pandemic hit, Madrid's players reacted better, coming back revitalised, more determined than ever that an 11-match sprint would end with a trophy. "After lockdown there was something very particular," said Zidane on Wednesday. "I could see it in training. The players wanted something." Zidane had a bigger squad than Barcelona's but his willingness to rotate became key. Tournaments have also been his strength and perhaps he rekindled that mentality. With no time for training, the message was simple: Win. In that sense, Zidane has silenced the doubters, even if it remains to be seen whether he can rebuild a team or replicate his success elsewhere. But just as this Madrid were a mess without him, with him they are celebrating again. Few expected him there but Zidane was right in his first press conference. "Change is for the future," he said. "The important thing is I'm back."

Zidane silences the doubters by bringing Real Madrid back to life

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday.

Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year.

Madrid defeated Villarreal 2-1 at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium to secure the victory they needed to clinch the title from Barcelona with one game left to play.

The trophy is Zidane's 11th after 209 games in charge of Real Madrid.

"He has won a trophy every 19 games," said Perez. "He is a blessing from heaven and hopefully he will be with us for a long time. People can criticise him as much as they want as long as he continues to win titles."

On Ramos, Perez said: "I am sure Ramos will end his career at Madrid. Everyone should stay calm. He is more than a captain to us, he has led the team with enormous character."&nbsp;

Ramos said he would like to retire with the newly-crowned Spanish champions. "Whatever the president wants," he said.

"It doesn't depend on me, I'm really happy here, everyone knows that and I'd like to end my career here.

"I'm happy and calm, I don't think there will be any problems on my side or from the club, let's hope I can retire here."

Ramos has scored five goals since the restart as Madrid won 10 games out of 10 to put Barcelona out of sight.

"I'm not too expressive," Zidane said. "But inside, I am very happy. I always told you the league wasn't yet won but today it is, so you can see my most beautiful smile. Today we can be happy."

Zidane has now won La Liga twice as a coach, adding another title to the one Madrid secured under him in 2017.

"The first one was phenomenal but this one has a particular flavour," he said. "After two months at home, we returned, we prepared ourselves in a different way. And we won a league, which is the most difficult thing to win. It comes from a lot of sacrifice."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday. Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday. Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year. Madrid defeated Villarreal 2-1 at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium to secure the victory they needed to clinch the title from Barcelona with one game left to play. The trophy is Zidane's 11th after 209 games in charge of Real Madrid. "He has won a trophy every 19 games," said Perez. "He is a blessing from heaven and hopefully he will be with us for a long time. People can criticise him as much as they want as long as he continues to win titles." On Ramos, Perez said: "I am sure Ramos will end his career at Madrid. Everyone should stay calm. He is more than a captain to us, he has led the team with enormous character." Ramos said he would like to retire with the newly-crowned Spanish champions. "Whatever the president wants," he said. "It doesn't depend on me, I'm really happy here, everyone knows that and I'd like to end my career here. "I'm happy and calm, I don't think there will be any problems on my side or from the club, let's hope I can retire here." Ramos has scored five goals since the restart as Madrid won 10 games out of 10 to put Barcelona out of sight. "I'm not too expressive," Zidane said. "But inside, I am very happy. I always told you the league wasn't yet won but today it is, so you can see my most beautiful smile. Today we can be happy." Zidane has now won La Liga twice as a coach, adding another title to the one Madrid secured under him in 2017. "The first one was phenomenal but this one has a particular flavour," he said. "After two months at home, we returned, we prepared ourselves in a different way. And we won a league, which is the most difficult thing to win. It comes from a lot of sacrifice."

Zidane a 'blessing from heaven', says Real president Perez

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-unlikely-to-return-for-la-liga-in-september-due-to-given-circumstances-spains-health-minister-313786" hreflang="en">Fans unlikely to return for La Liga in September due to given circumstances: Spain's health minister</a>

Madrid capitalised on the Barcelona's errors in the final phase of the title and have developed a four points lead over Camp Nuo side.&nbsp;

After a win at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, Real Madrid will win the third league title in eight years. Since the restart from coronavirus lockdown, Real Madrid have won nine out of nine games.&nbsp;

Madrid could even afford to lose to Villarreal if they beat Leganes on Sunday but Zidane is wary of complacency.

“There is a lot of noise about celebrations and holidays and all that but tomorrow we have a game, period,” said Zidane in a press conference on Wednesday.

“We have to focus all our energy on tomorrow, nothing else. There is a lot of talk but all the players, everyone who works at the club, is only thinking about the game.

“Nobody knows what will happen until it happens.”

“It was something quite particuar that when we started to work again after lockdown and after three months at home, the players had this desire to do something great,” said Zidane.

“I saw the players and they wanted something more, they were staying after training to do extra. That says everything you need to know about this team,” he added.&nbsp;

The bottom line is if Real wins tonight's match they win the league.

(Inputs from AFP)

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet.

Real Madrid are just one game away to seal the deal and win the La Liga. But their coach, Zinedine Zidane has urged his players to focus as the league has not been won yet. Also read: Fans unlikely to return for La Liga in September due to given circumstances: Spain's health minister Madrid capitalised on the Barcelona's errors in the final phase of the title and have developed a four points lead over Camp Nuo side. After a win at the Alfredo di Stefano Stadium, Real Madrid will win the third league title in eight years. Since the restart from coronavirus lockdown, Real Madrid have won nine out of nine games. Madrid could even afford to lose to Villarreal if they beat Leganes on Sunday but Zidane is wary of complacency. “There is a lot of noise about celebrations and holidays and all that but tomorrow we have a game, period,” said Zidane in a press conference on Wednesday. “We have to focus all our energy on tomorrow, nothing else. There is a lot of talk but all the players, everyone who works at the club, is only thinking about the game. “Nobody knows what will happen until it happens.” “It was something quite particuar that when we started to work again after lockdown and after three months at home, the players had this desire to do something great,” said Zidane. “I saw the players and they wanted something more, they were staying after training to do extra. That says everything you need to know about this team,” he added. The bottom line is if Real wins tonight's match they win the league. (Inputs from AFP)

Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid are a match away from clinching the La Liga title

Real Madrid coach Zinedine&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday.

Real will be targeting a sixth consecutive victory since the COVID-19 hiatus when they host Getafe, looking to capitalise on Barca's 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, which was the Catalans' third draw in six matches.

"The reality is we have 18 points left to fight for and you cannot say anything until you are champions mathematically,"&nbsp;Zidane&nbsp;told a virtual news conference on Wednesday.

"I have been in this situation as a player before and I know we still haven't won anything. The players and I are not about to forget that."

Real have a full squad for the Getafe game although there is concern about the recent performances of Eden Hazard, who has received rough treatment from opponents since returning from a serious ankle injury he sustained in February.

Zidane&nbsp;said he hoped players were not trying to target the Belgian.

"We know how good he is and so do our rivals. But I hope they are not trying to cause him damage. Our opponents play tough, but we have to be relaxed about that," he said.

"Eden has struggled because he has been away from the pitch for a long time and we have to be patient with him, but he'll be back to top form in no time at all."

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said his side will not rest until they are declared champions after title rivals Barcelona handed them the opportunity to go four points clear at the top of La Liga if they beat Getafe on Thursday. Real will be targeting a sixth consecutive victory since the COVID-19 hiatus when they host Getafe, looking to capitalise on Barca's 2-2 draw with Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, which was the Catalans' third draw in six matches. "The reality is we have 18 points left to fight for and you cannot say anything until you are champions mathematically," Zidane told a virtual news conference on Wednesday. "I have been in this situation as a player before and I know we still haven't won anything. The players and I are not about to forget that." Real have a full squad for the Getafe game although there is concern about the recent performances of Eden Hazard, who has received rough treatment from opponents since returning from a serious ankle injury he sustained in February. Zidane said he hoped players were not trying to target the Belgian. "We know how good he is and so do our rivals. But I hope they are not trying to cause him damage. Our opponents play tough, but we have to be relaxed about that," he said. "Eden has struggled because he has been away from the pitch for a long time and we have to be patient with him, but he'll be back to top form in no time at all."

Real Madrid not about to get complacent after Barcelona slip-ups: Zinedine Zidane

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-lyon-stun-cristiano-ronaldos-juventus-in-the-first-leg-fixture-282987" hreflang="en">Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture</a>

Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Manchester City was the better team on pitch during the match and missed a big chance in the 21st minute after Kevin De Bruyne, and Jesus failed to go past Courtois but conceded a goal struck by Isco in the 60th Minute.

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🔵 Manchester City have beaten Real Madrid for the first time in their history 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/cw0eVart0E">pic.twitter.com/cw0eVart0E</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1232807221022593024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Gabriel Jesus scored an equaliser in the 78th minute after hitting the ball from 12 yards after Carvajal brought down substitute Raheem Sterling.

Kevin De Bruyne's 83rd-minute penalty sealed a comeback win for Manchester City.

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🔵 Comeback! Gabriel Jesus &amp; Kevin De Bruyne inspire turnaround in Madrid ⚽️⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/0AFdGk9dxv">pic.twitter.com/0AFdGk9dxv</a>
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Manchester City is probably playing their final European Cup before being banned for two years and they are making the most of it.

Guardiola, with just one year remaining on his contract, will look forward to winning the Champions League with the English side.

Real Madrid was on the back foot right from the beginning. They hit 9 shots (3 on target), whereas, Man City struck 16 shots out of which they had 8 on target.

Manchester held 52 per cent of the possession whereas 48 was held by Real Madrid. Sergio Ramos was sent off after a desperate attempt on Gabriel by the Madrid captain to avoid another goal.

Sergio Ramos' red card has Real Madrid worried for the reverse fixture.

&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League.

Pep Guardiola's masterclass on Spanish grounds ensures Manchester City's emphatic victory over Real Madrid in Santiago Bernabeu. Also read: Champions League: Lyon stun Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus in the first leg fixture Kevin De Bruyne's penalty sealed off a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the Round of 16 in the Champions League. Manchester City was the better team on pitch during the match and missed a big chance in the 21st minute after Kevin De Bruyne, and Jesus failed to go past Courtois but conceded a goal struck by Isco in the 60th Minute. 🔵 Manchester City have beaten Real Madrid for the first time in their history 💪#UCL pic.twitter.com/cw0eVart0E — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 26, 2020 × Gabriel Jesus scored an equaliser in the 78th minute after hitting the ball from 12 yards after Carvajal brought down substitute Raheem Sterling. Kevin De Bruyne's 83rd-minute penalty sealed a comeback win for Manchester City. 🔵 Comeback! Gabriel Jesus & Kevin De Bruyne inspire turnaround in Madrid ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/0AFdGk9dxv — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 26, 2020 × Manchester City is probably playing their final European Cup before being banned for two years and they are making the most of it. Guardiola, with just one year remaining on his contract, will look forward to winning the Champions League with the English side. Real Madrid was on the back foot right from the beginning. They hit 9 shots (3 on target), whereas, Man City struck 16 shots out of which they had 8 on target. Manchester held 52 per cent of the possession whereas 48 was held by Real Madrid. Sergio Ramos was sent off after a desperate attempt on Gabriel by the Madrid captain to avoid another goal. Sergio Ramos' red card has Real Madrid worried for the reverse fixture.

Champions League: Guardiola's masterclass ensures Man City comeback against Real Madrid

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point.

Real manager Zinedine Zidane was philosophical.

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👔💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zidane?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zidane</a> analyses our 2-2 draw against <a href="https://twitter.com/RCCeltaEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCCeltaEN</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridCelta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridCelta</a> <a href="https://t.co/bhzYiGlrJY">pic.twitter.com/bhzYiGlrJY</a>
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden/status/1229178136073469953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"There's nothing to explain, it's just the way things are, it's football," he said. "I'm not worried about it, but I'm disappointed, as always when you drop two points at home."&nbsp;

Barcelona beat third-place Getafe on Saturday to open a 10-point gap on the chasing pack. Sevilla could have climbed to third on Sunday but were held, 2-2, at home by rock-bottom Espanyol.&nbsp;

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HIGHLIGHTS | <a href="https://twitter.com/SantiMina7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SantiMina7</a> scored with his first touch as <a href="https://twitter.com/RCCeltaEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCCeltaEN</a> stunned the Bernabeu! 💙😱 
 
📺 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadridCelta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadridCelta</a> <a href="https://t.co/SK12xGJL6y">pic.twitter.com/SK12xGJL6y</a>
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Real had won five straight in La Liga to accelerate past Barcelona. On Sunday they welcomed back Eden Hazard, who had been out since November. Coach Zinedine Zidane also recalled his other 100 million euro player Gareth Bale to complete an all-star attack with Karim Benzema.

Yet Celta leapt into the lead after seven minutes. A pass from Iago Aspas sent Fedor Smolov galloping clear up the middle and he shot low past Thibaut Courtois.

"There were mistakes, especially for the first goal," said Zidane. "We were not well-positioned, it happens, and it'll happen to us again."

Celta had only climbed out of the relegation places the weekend before and looked anxious and overawed on the ball.&nbsp;

Real dominated the rest of the first half and their starry attacking lineup produced pacy, intricate and imaginative attacking interchanges but a combination of good defending and bad finishing kept Real out for the rest of the first half.

Real again dominated the start of the first half.&nbsp;

Sergio Ramos, already playing as an extra striker, slammed the ball into the net but had been standing offside.&nbsp;

In the 52nd minute, Marcelo, not for the first time, found space on the left. His low cross deflected to Toni Kroos following the attack. The German drilled in the equaliser. It was the sixth straight season Kroos had scored against Celta.

In the 65th minute, goalkeeper Ruben Blanco pulled down the impressive Hazard. Ramos slammed the penalty into the bottom corner of the net.

"We're glad he's back," said Zidane who took the Belgian off in the 73rd minute.

"We know what he can do for us. He didn't go further than we planned after three months out," Zidane said. "He was involved in a lot of attacking action."

Celta responded by rediscovering their attacking nerve.

With four minutes left, a sharp pass from Denis Suarez, who had come on in the 71st minute, caught the Real back four rigid on the edge of their own area. Santi Mina, who had been on for just two minutes, raced onto the ball and drilled a shot past Courtois.

"An extraordinary pass," said Zidane.

Real play Levante in the league next Sunday before entertaining Manchester City in the Champions League.

"Now we have to prepare for our next game because after that it's going to get harder and harder."

Real Madrid also used the match Sunday to send a message to China.

The players came on before the match wearing shirts with the Chinese message "China, come on!"

During the game the advertising hoardings flashed up the English message "Wuhan! Come on! We support you!"

"Real Madrid wishes to express its full support for all of the people affected by the coronavirus," the club tweeted in English.

Yao Fei, Charge d'Affaires in China's Madrid embassy, responded with a tweet of thanks in Spanish.

"A million thanks to Real Madrid for their valuable support for China in the fight against the coronavirus! Victory will be ours!"

The point ensured Celta stayed just outside the relegations places ahead of Mallorca, who beat Alaves on Saturday, on goal difference. The pair are two points clear of Leganes, who drew with Betis on Sunday and Espanyol who drew at Sevilla.

Sevilla missed a chance to exploit Getafe's loss to Barcelona and fourth-placed Atletico Madrid's 2-2 draw at Valencia on Friday.&nbsp;

Lucas Ocampos headed Sevilla in front after 14 minutes before Adrian Embarba levelled the scores with a free-kick.

China winger Wu Lei put the away side ahead five minutes after the break.

After Victor Sanchez was sent off Suso exploited Sevilla's man advantage to score his first goal for the club since arriving on loan from AC Milan last month.

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point.

Real Madrid's winning streak ended when they conceded a late goal to draw 2-2 at home to Celta Vigo and finish the weekend with their lead over Barcelona down to one point. Real manager Zinedine Zidane was philosophical. 👔💬 #Zidane analyses our 2-2 draw against @RCCeltaEN. #RealMadridCelta pic.twitter.com/bhzYiGlrJY — Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) February 16, 2020 × "There's nothing to explain, it's just the way things are, it's football," he said. "I'm not worried about it, but I'm disappointed, as always when you drop two points at home." Barcelona beat third-place Getafe on Saturday to open a 10-point gap on the chasing pack. Sevilla could have climbed to third on Sunday but were held, 2-2, at home by rock-bottom Espanyol. HIGHLIGHTS | @SantiMina7 scored with his first touch as @RCCeltaEN stunned the Bernabeu! 💙😱 📺 #RealMadridCelta pic.twitter.com/SK12xGJL6y — LaLiga English (@LaLigaEN) February 16, 2020 × Real had won five straight in La Liga to accelerate past Barcelona. On Sunday they welcomed back Eden Hazard, who had been out since November. Coach Zinedine Zidane also recalled his other 100 million euro player Gareth Bale to complete an all-star attack with Karim Benzema. Yet Celta leapt into the lead after seven minutes. A pass from Iago Aspas sent Fedor Smolov galloping clear up the middle and he shot low past Thibaut Courtois. "There were mistakes, especially for the first goal," said Zidane. "We were not well-positioned, it happens, and it'll happen to us again." Celta had only climbed out of the relegation places the weekend before and looked anxious and overawed on the ball. Real dominated the rest of the first half and their starry attacking lineup produced pacy, intricate and imaginative attacking interchanges but a combination of good defending and bad finishing kept Real out for the rest of the first half. Real again dominated the start of the first half. Sergio Ramos, already playing as an extra striker, slammed the ball into the net but had been standing offside. In the 52nd minute, Marcelo, not for the first time, found space on the left. His low cross deflected to Toni Kroos following the attack. The German drilled in the equaliser. It was the sixth straight season Kroos had scored against Celta. In the 65th minute, goalkeeper Ruben Blanco pulled down the impressive Hazard. Ramos slammed the penalty into the bottom corner of the net. "We're glad he's back," said Zidane who took the Belgian off in the 73rd minute. "We know what he can do for us. He didn't go further than we planned after three months out," Zidane said. "He was involved in a lot of attacking action." Celta responded by rediscovering their attacking nerve. With four minutes left, a sharp pass from Denis Suarez, who had come on in the 71st minute, caught the Real back four rigid on the edge of their own area. Santi Mina, who had been on for just two minutes, raced onto the ball and drilled a shot past Courtois. "An extraordinary pass," said Zidane. Real play Levante in the league next Sunday before entertaining Manchester City in the Champions League. "Now we have to prepare for our next game because after that it's going to get harder and harder." Real Madrid also used the match Sunday to send a message to China. The players came on before the match wearing shirts with the Chinese message "China, come on!" During the game the advertising hoardings flashed up the English message "Wuhan! Come on! We support you!" "Real Madrid wishes to express its full support for all of the people affected by the coronavirus," the club tweeted in English. Yao Fei, Charge d'Affaires in China's Madrid embassy, responded with a tweet of thanks in Spanish. "A million thanks to Real Madrid for their valuable support for China in the fight against the coronavirus! Victory will be ours!" The point ensured Celta stayed just outside the relegations places ahead of Mallorca, who beat Alaves on Saturday, on goal difference. The pair are two points clear of Leganes, who drew with Betis on Sunday and Espanyol who drew at Sevilla. Sevilla missed a chance to exploit Getafe's loss to Barcelona and fourth-placed Atletico Madrid's 2-2 draw at Valencia on Friday. Lucas Ocampos headed Sevilla in front after 14 minutes before Adrian Embarba levelled the scores with a free-kick. China winger Wu Lei put the away side ahead five minutes after the break. After Victor Sanchez was sent off Suso exploited Sevilla's man advantage to score his first goal for the club since arriving on loan from AC Milan last month.

La Liga: Celta strike late to put brakes on Real Madrid

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/napoli-sack-coach-ancelotti-after-reaching-champions-league-last-16-267631">Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti</a>&nbsp;to take up the role at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Merseyside club</a>, the Italian said on Monday.

Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Chelsea</a> in England, left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Napoli</a> this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a>, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-to-compete-manchester-united-in-league-cup-semi-finals-derby-269097">Duncan Ferguson</a>, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday.

"The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me."

Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Real Madrid</a>, outlined his long-term plan to get&nbsp;Everton&nbsp;playing&nbsp;football&nbsp;that would delight the club's supporters.

"We want to try and&nbsp;play&nbsp;attractive&nbsp;football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League.

"I have my idea of this team and squad.&nbsp;I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters.

"They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus.&nbsp;It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly."

Ancelotti&nbsp;confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the&nbsp;players, saying he had done the same at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a> with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane.

"Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the&nbsp;players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me.

"Duncan has done a great job, the&nbsp;players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal."

Everton&nbsp;host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a> on Thursday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday. Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed Chelsea in England, left Napoli this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone. Everton, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss Duncan Ferguson, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday. "The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough," Ancelotti told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me." Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and Real Madrid, outlined his long-term plan to get Everton playing football that would delight the club's supporters. "We want to try and play attractive football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League. "I have my idea of this team and squad. I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters. "They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus. It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly." Ancelotti confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the players, saying he had done the same at Paris St Germain with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane. "Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant," Ancelotti said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me. "Duncan has done a great job, the players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal." Everton host Burnley on Thursday.

We want to try and play attractive football: Carlo Ancelotti on Everton

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-draw-as-clasico-marred-by-violence-269061">Real&nbsp;Madrid</a>&nbsp;hit the woodwork three times but could only draw 0-0 at home to&nbsp;Athletic&nbsp;Bilbao in a frustrating final game of 2019 which meant they slipped two points&nbsp;behind&nbsp;La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Real's top scorer Karim Benzema had a shot cleared off the line in a lively first half while Toni Kroos came within inches of scoring when he waltzed through the defence and hammered a shot which&nbsp;Athletic&nbsp;keeper Unai Simon deflected on to the bar.

Substitute Nacho Fernandez rattled the bar in the second half while Serbian forward Luka Jovic left Simon flat-footed with a late header but watched as the ball bounced off the post and Sergio Ramos scuffed the rebound back at the goalkeeper.

Athletic, who beat champions&nbsp;Barca&nbsp;earlier this season, gave an astute performance in defence and also gave their hosts a few scares, with Kenan Kodro having a goal ruled out for offside and Inaki Williams forcing Thibaut Courtois to make a diving save.

It was&nbsp;Real's third draw in a row after 1-1 and 0-0 stalemates away to Valencia and&nbsp;Barca&nbsp;respectively, games in which they also played well but lacked composure in front of goal.

"I feel bad for the players because of the effort they put in. We are annoyed that we couldn't score with all the chances we had,"&nbsp;Real&nbsp;coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-league-gears-up-for-final-16-draw-after-record-breaking-group-stage-268079">Zinedine Zidane</a> told reporters.

"The ball isn't going in for us at the moment but there's no need to be pessimistic. We have to remember this has been a good season for us. We've had a little bit of a sour ending to the year but we can't wait for 2020 to start."

Zidane's side are second in the standings on 37 points after 18 games, two&nbsp;behind&nbsp;Barca&nbsp;who beat Alaves 4-1 on Saturday.&nbsp;Athletic&nbsp;are seventh with 28.

"We are left with a bad taste because we hit the woodwork three times and had some other opportunities, so it's a&nbsp;real&nbsp;shame that we couldn't pick up three points," added&nbsp;Real&nbsp;goalkeeper Courtois.

"Athletic&nbsp;set up to frustrate us, we know how they like to play but when you have so many chances it's hard not to feel like it is two points dropped.

Athletic&nbsp;coach Gaizka Garitano did not shy away from the fact that fortune had favoured his side, who have not won at the Bernabeu since 2005.

"To get anything from here you have to have a bit of luck, but we ended the game very well," he said.

"To get a point here while creating chances in attack and not conceding any goals is not easy at all."

Real Madrid hit the woodwork three times but could only draw 0-0 at home to Athletic Bilbao in a frustrating final game of 2019 which meant they slipped two points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Real Madrid hit the woodwork three times but could only draw 0-0 at home to Athletic Bilbao in a frustrating final game of 2019 which meant they slipped two points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona. Real's top scorer Karim Benzema had a shot cleared off the line in a lively first half while Toni Kroos came within inches of scoring when he waltzed through the defence and hammered a shot which Athletic keeper Unai Simon deflected on to the bar. Substitute Nacho Fernandez rattled the bar in the second half while Serbian forward Luka Jovic left Simon flat-footed with a late header but watched as the ball bounced off the post and Sergio Ramos scuffed the rebound back at the goalkeeper. Athletic, who beat champions Barca earlier this season, gave an astute performance in defence and also gave their hosts a few scares, with Kenan Kodro having a goal ruled out for offside and Inaki Williams forcing Thibaut Courtois to make a diving save. It was Real's third draw in a row after 1-1 and 0-0 stalemates away to Valencia and Barca respectively, games in which they also played well but lacked composure in front of goal. "I feel bad for the players because of the effort they put in. We are annoyed that we couldn't score with all the chances we had," Real coach Zinedine Zidane told reporters. "The ball isn't going in for us at the moment but there's no need to be pessimistic. We have to remember this has been a good season for us. We've had a little bit of a sour ending to the year but we can't wait for 2020 to start." Zidane's side are second in the standings on 37 points after 18 games, two behind Barca who beat Alaves 4-1 on Saturday. Athletic are seventh with 28. "We are left with a bad taste because we hit the woodwork three times and had some other opportunities, so it's a real shame that we couldn't pick up three points," added Real goalkeeper Courtois. "Athletic set up to frustrate us, we know how they like to play but when you have so many chances it's hard not to feel like it is two points dropped. Athletic coach Gaizka Garitano did not shy away from the fact that fortune had favoured his side, who have not won at the Bernabeu since 2005. "To get anything from here you have to have a bit of luck, but we ended the game very well," he said. "To get a point here while creating chances in attack and not conceding any goals is not easy at all."

La Liga: Real Madrid frustrated by Athletic, fall behind Barcelona

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-el-clasico-to-be-played-on-december-18-spanish-football-federation-257705">Barcelona and Real Madrid</a> could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou.

After being postponed in October, there were renewed fears of unrest around Spain's most famous fixture and while the match was only briefly interrupted by yellow beach balls were thrown onto the pitch, outside the stadium, chaos ensued.

Masked protesters had set bins on fire and thrown rocks and glass bottles at police, who responded by firing foam bullets.

Forty-six people were lightly injured in the clashes, including eight who needed to be taken to a medical centre for extra care, local emergency services said.&nbsp;

Five people were arrested, according to a police spokesman.

The protesters, many of them carrying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fresh-protests-in-spain-over-catalan-sentence-256141">Catalan separatist </a>flags, began setting up barricades in the middle of the street which they then burned after police arrived in dozens of police vans.

Inside the stadium, the match passed largely undisturbed, save for a brief pause early in the second half as dozens of yellow beach balls had to be removed by stewards.

"There was tension in the game and I noticed when some yellow balls fell down," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.&nbsp;

"But nothing more. We tried to give a sense of normality."

"Everyone wanted to see a good football match," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "In that sense, I think we can be happy."

The game was less eventful than expected, with neither Barcelona nor Real ever really at their best and both, perhaps in the end, happier not to win than to lose.&nbsp;

A goalless draw means <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-crash-to-defeat-at-levante-after-second-half-collapse-259630">Barcelona</a> stay top of La Liga, ahead of Real on goal difference while the historic score in league meetings between the two rivals remains 72 victories apiece.&nbsp;

"More than a Clasico", read the front page of Barcelona daily Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday morning ahead of a fixture that while always politically charged, had assumed even greater significance than usual.&nbsp;

The game was originally due to be played on October 26 but was postponed due to violent protests breaking out across Catalonia, following the sentencing of nine independence leaders to prison.

In the 53 days since, expectations swelled around what Democratic Tsunami, the Catalan independence protest group, might do to disrupt the most-watched club football match in the world.&nbsp;

Bale 'goal' ruled out&nbsp;

But in truth, there was less than expected during the 90 minutes.&nbsp;

Early in the second half, yellow beachballs were thrown onto the field while blue banners bearing the slogan of Democratic Tsunami: 'Spain, sit and talk', were also held up.&nbsp;

Four hours before kick-off, thousands had gathered at all four corners of the stadium to hold the same blue banners and wave Catalan flags, while some blocked traffic too.&nbsp;

But the demonstrations were peaceful, in stark contrast to the ugly scenes that would come a few hours later.

Both teams had departed from the same hotel and aside from whistles and insults directed at the Madrid team bus, each arrived without incident. Club president Florentino Perez gave a thumbs-up as he walked in.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-never-asked-to-leave-real-madrid-says-agent-266604">Gareth Bale</a> was last to get off, by which time he might have known he was starting for the first time in four matches. Ramos played in his 43rd Clasico, a record for any player in history.&nbsp;

For Barcelona, Sergio Busquets was included in the line-up first announced before he was swapped out for Ivan Rakitic. Barca claimed it had been a communication error.&nbsp;

If it was, it was not the first mistake of the night, with a frantic first half full of them.&nbsp;

Real were the better side in the opening half an hour although Luis Suarez might have scored early had he controlled Jordi Alba's cross at the back post.&nbsp;

There was a goalline clearance at both ends as Casemiro's header bounced up and had to be hooked away by Gerard Pique before Thibaut Courtois punched out to Messi but his shot was blocked by Ramos.&nbsp;

Shortly after the interval, stewards ran on to collect the beach balls and then Barcelona twice should have scored, only for Lionel Messi and Suarez both to fluff finishes in quick succession.&nbsp;

Bale scored with 15 minutes left but his provider Ferland Mendy was a fraction offside. Neither team wanted to go for broke in the latter stages.&nbsp;

Barcelona and Real Madrid could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou.

Barcelona and Real Madrid could not be separated on Wednesday in a Clasico that was overshadowed by violent clashes between Catalan independence protestors and police outside Camp Nou. After being postponed in October, there were renewed fears of unrest around Spain's most famous fixture and while the match was only briefly interrupted by yellow beach balls were thrown onto the pitch, outside the stadium, chaos ensued. Masked protesters had set bins on fire and thrown rocks and glass bottles at police, who responded by firing foam bullets. Forty-six people were lightly injured in the clashes, including eight who needed to be taken to a medical centre for extra care, local emergency services said. Five people were arrested, according to a police spokesman. The protesters, many of them carrying Catalan separatist flags, began setting up barricades in the middle of the street which they then burned after police arrived in dozens of police vans. Inside the stadium, the match passed largely undisturbed, save for a brief pause early in the second half as dozens of yellow beach balls had to be removed by stewards. "There was tension in the game and I noticed when some yellow balls fell down," said Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde. "But nothing more. We tried to give a sense of normality." "Everyone wanted to see a good football match," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane. "In that sense, I think we can be happy." The game was less eventful than expected, with neither Barcelona nor Real ever really at their best and both, perhaps in the end, happier not to win than to lose. A goalless draw means Barcelona stay top of La Liga, ahead of Real on goal difference while the historic score in league meetings between the two rivals remains 72 victories apiece. "More than a Clasico", read the front page of Barcelona daily Mundo Deportivo on Wednesday morning ahead of a fixture that while always politically charged, had assumed even greater significance than usual. The game was originally due to be played on October 26 but was postponed due to violent protests breaking out across Catalonia, following the sentencing of nine independence leaders to prison. In the 53 days since, expectations swelled around what Democratic Tsunami, the Catalan independence protest group, might do to disrupt the most-watched club football match in the world. Bale 'goal' ruled out But in truth, there was less than expected during the 90 minutes. Early in the second half, yellow beachballs were thrown onto the field while blue banners bearing the slogan of Democratic Tsunami: 'Spain, sit and talk', were also held up. Four hours before kick-off, thousands had gathered at all four corners of the stadium to hold the same blue banners and wave Catalan flags, while some blocked traffic too. But the demonstrations were peaceful, in stark contrast to the ugly scenes that would come a few hours later. Both teams had departed from the same hotel and aside from whistles and insults directed at the Madrid team bus, each arrived without incident. Club president Florentino Perez gave a thumbs-up as he walked in. Gareth Bale was last to get off, by which time he might have known he was starting for the first time in four matches. Ramos played in his 43rd Clasico, a record for any player in history. For Barcelona, Sergio Busquets was included in the line-up first announced before he was swapped out for Ivan Rakitic. Barca claimed it had been a communication error. If it was, it was not the first mistake of the night, with a frantic first half full of them. Real were the better side in the opening half an hour although Luis Suarez might have scored early had he controlled Jordi Alba's cross at the back post. There was a goalline clearance at both ends as Casemiro's header bounced up and had to be hooked away by Gerard Pique before Thibaut Courtois punched out to Messi but his shot was blocked by Ramos. Shortly after the interval, stewards ran on to collect the beach balls and then Barcelona twice should have scored, only for Lionel Messi and Suarez both to fluff finishes in quick succession. Bale scored with 15 minutes left but his provider Ferland Mendy was a fraction offside. Neither team wanted to go for broke in the latter stages.

Barcelona, Real Madrid draw as Clasico marred by violence

Champions League gears up for Final 16 draw after record breaking group stage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-keep-pace-with-barca-as-bale-suffers-hostile-reception-264159">Gareth Bale</a> "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said.

Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order'.

He was booed by real fans during last month's match against Real Sociedad.

The 30-year-old forward was also involved in a tense stand-off with coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gareth-bale-has-to-be-the-player-we-know-he-is-zinedine-zidane-245111">Zinedine Zidane</a> in the off-season, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning was scrapped.

"He's not ecstatic," Bale's agent Jonathan Barnett told the BBC's Euro Leagues Podcast. "He has got a contract and as long as he is a Real Madrid player he will play at 100 per cent&nbsp;- and do very well.

"He has never asked to leave. If the right opportunity came along for him and it's something he wants to do we have to have a chat with the president of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-go-top-with-gutsy-win-against-alaves-265514">Real Madrid</a> and see where we are."

Bale was absent from training on Thursday and Spanish newspaper Marca said he would miss Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol as well as Wednesday's Champions League game at Club Bruges due to a hamstring strain.

Gareth Bale "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said. Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales.

Gareth Bale "is not ecstatic" with life at Real Madrid but has never asked to leave the club, the Welsh forward's agent has said. Bale's commitment to the 13-times European champions came under the microscope last month after he helped his nation qualify for Euro 2020 and then joined his team mates dancing alongside a banner saying 'Wales. Golf. Madrid. In that order'. He was booed by real fans during last month's match against Real Sociedad. The 30-year-old forward was also involved in a tense stand-off with coach Zinedine Zidane in the off-season, with the Frenchman stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning was scrapped. "He's not ecstatic," Bale's agent Jonathan Barnett told the BBC's Euro Leagues Podcast. "He has got a contract and as long as he is a Real Madrid player he will play at 100 per cent - and do very well. "He has never asked to leave. If the right opportunity came along for him and it's something he wants to do we have to have a chat with the president of Real Madrid and see where we are." Bale was absent from training on Thursday and Spanish newspaper Marca said he would miss Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol as well as Wednesday's Champions League game at Club Bruges due to a hamstring strain.

Gareth Bale has never asked to leave Real Madrid, says agent

Real Madrid registered their biggest win since Zinedine Zidane's return as coach on Wednesday as they demolished struggling Leganes 5-0 to move up to second in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-atletico-madrid-held-at-alaves-after-perez-thunderbolt-258742">La Liga</a>.&nbsp;

Karim Benzema was the star of the show, the Frenchman rounding off a superb attacking display with a goal from the penalty spot after Rodrygo, Toni Kroos and another spot-kick from Sergio Ramos had already put Leganes out of sight. Luka Jovic added a fifth in injury-time.

"We have not scored five goals for a long time," said Zidane. "We needed a victory like that. When you start scoring goals, it makes everything easier."

Gareth Bale was absent as he continues to recover from a calf injury but Madrid hardly missed the Welshman, whose future has again been up for discussion this week after he was pictured returning to London.

Zidane said he has spoken to Bale and saw him in the changing room at the Santiago Bernabeu. He was also asked if Bale had permission to leave the game five minutes before full-time. "I think so," Zidane said. "If he leaves five minutes before the game finishes, he can get home more easily." &nbsp;

Zidane had struck a conciliatory tone on Tuesday too but Bale's team-mates flourished in his absence, albeit against a limp Leganes side, who remain rooted to the bottom of the table after sacking their coach Mauricio Pellegrino last week.&nbsp;

This was not a performance to recommend caretaker manager Luis Cembranos for the job long-term.&nbsp;

Yet there were some impressive Madrid showings nonetheless, not least from Benzema, who has been Zidane's most consistent performer by far in recent months and now has seven goals already in all competitions.&nbsp;

"It's not just the goal, it's what he does for the team," Zidane said. "He doesn't surprise me."

Rodrygo, the 18-year-old making only his fourth senior appearance, came into Bale's position on the right and, particularly in the first half, he shone, grabbing an early goal and providing the frightening turn of pace that Bale once offered before injuries took their toll.

"He is 18 but you don't have to be old to score here," Zidane said. "He has character and he is getting better and better."&nbsp;

Perhaps the only question mark was Eden Hazard, who still appears short of his best in a Madrid shirt.&nbsp;

There were glimpses of the Belgian's undeniable brilliance but moments of indecision too, that suggest he is finding his feet, and fitness, at his new club.&nbsp;

Madrid's victory keeps them just a point behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-sends-barcelona-top-in-valladolid-rout-258733">Barcelona</a>, who thrashed Real Valladolid on Tuesday, and pushes them one ahead of Atletico, with a game in hand over their city rivals.&nbsp;

Two goals arrived in the seventh and eight minutes and Benzema provided each of them, first keeping alive Hazard's cross for Rodrygo to poke home before teeing up Kroos to flick in at the near post.&nbsp;

Leganes looked jaded, without belief or direction, and they fell three down before the interval as Hazard was fouled by Juan Soriano after a superb through ball from Casemiro.&nbsp;

Ramos missed the penalty but was given a second attempt, VAR prompting a re-take for the first time in La Liga after Soriano sprung off his line too early. This time, Ramos made no mistake.&nbsp;

Benzema had hit the post after a smart dummy from Hazard before finally he got the goal he deserved after Luka Modric earned a spot-kick with a slick turn around Kenneth Omeruo. Benzema converted and then departed to a standing ovation.&nbsp;

Jovic was his replacement and after having one goal ruled out for offside the Serbian also made his mark. Dani Carvajal's cross offered up a simple header to make it five.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Real Madrid registered their biggest win since Zinedine Zidane's return as coach on Wednesday as they demolished struggling Leganes 5-0 to move up to second in La Liga.

Real Madrid registered their biggest win since Zinedine Zidane's return as coach on Wednesday as they demolished struggling Leganes 5-0 to move up to second in La Liga. Karim Benzema was the star of the show, the Frenchman rounding off a superb attacking display with a goal from the penalty spot after Rodrygo, Toni Kroos and another spot-kick from Sergio Ramos had already put Leganes out of sight. Luka Jovic added a fifth in injury-time. "We have not scored five goals for a long time," said Zidane. "We needed a victory like that. When you start scoring goals, it makes everything easier." Gareth Bale was absent as he continues to recover from a calf injury but Madrid hardly missed the Welshman, whose future has again been up for discussion this week after he was pictured returning to London. Zidane said he has spoken to Bale and saw him in the changing room at the Santiago Bernabeu. He was also asked if Bale had permission to leave the game five minutes before full-time. "I think so," Zidane said. "If he leaves five minutes before the game finishes, he can get home more easily." Zidane had struck a conciliatory tone on Tuesday too but Bale's team-mates flourished in his absence, albeit against a limp Leganes side, who remain rooted to the bottom of the table after sacking their coach Mauricio Pellegrino last week. This was not a performance to recommend caretaker manager Luis Cembranos for the job long-term. Yet there were some impressive Madrid showings nonetheless, not least from Benzema, who has been Zidane's most consistent performer by far in recent months and now has seven goals already in all competitions. "It's not just the goal, it's what he does for the team," Zidane said. "He doesn't surprise me." Rodrygo, the 18-year-old making only his fourth senior appearance, came into Bale's position on the right and, particularly in the first half, he shone, grabbing an early goal and providing the frightening turn of pace that Bale once offered before injuries took their toll. "He is 18 but you don't have to be old to score here," Zidane said. "He has character and he is getting better and better." Perhaps the only question mark was Eden Hazard, who still appears short of his best in a Madrid shirt. There were glimpses of the Belgian's undeniable brilliance but moments of indecision too, that suggest he is finding his feet, and fitness, at his new club. Madrid's victory keeps them just a point behind Barcelona, who thrashed Real Valladolid on Tuesday, and pushes them one ahead of Atletico, with a game in hand over their city rivals. Two goals arrived in the seventh and eight minutes and Benzema provided each of them, first keeping alive Hazard's cross for Rodrygo to poke home before teeing up Kroos to flick in at the near post. Leganes looked jaded, without belief or direction, and they fell three down before the interval as Hazard was fouled by Juan Soriano after a superb through ball from Casemiro. Ramos missed the penalty but was given a second attempt, VAR prompting a re-take for the first time in La Liga after Soriano sprung off his line too early. This time, Ramos made no mistake. Benzema had hit the post after a smart dummy from Hazard before finally he got the goal he deserved after Luka Modric earned a spot-kick with a slick turn around Kenneth Omeruo. Benzema converted and then departed to a standing ovation. Jovic was his replacement and after having one goal ruled out for offside the Serbian also made his mark. Dani Carvajal's cross offered up a simple header to make it five.

La Liga: Benzema stars as Real Madrid put five past limp Leganes

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he is paying no attention to heavy criticism aimed at him after the 3-0 defeat by Paris St Germain in the Champions League and is not bothered that Spanish media continue to link Jose Mourinho with his job.

Real were up against an under-strength PSG side on Wednesday missing Neymar, Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe but produced a pitiful display, failing to register a shot on target in a Champions League game for the first time in 16 years.

"I'm not interested in what is said outside the club, the day I pay attention to what's in the press is the day I leave," Zidane told a news conference on Saturday ahead of Real's visit to early La Liga leaders Sevilla on Sunday.

"I feel in a strong position and I never give up. I will keep trying until the last minute and as long as the club will give me the chance to continue. I don't feel questioned at all."

Spanish media have reported that Real president Florentino Perez would be keen to recruit former coach Mourinho, currently without a club, should Zidane be relieved of his duties.

"I'm not bothered by the Mourinho speculation," added the French coach, who led Real to three consecutive Champions League titles before resigning in 2018 but has only won seven out of 16 games since returning to the club in March.

"This is how the situation is, and whenever the team has a bad result the impression is that everything needs to change. It's difficult but it's the reality."

Real have taken eight points from four La Liga games while Sevilla top the standings with 10 after making a flying start under coach Julen Lopegetui, who was named as Zidane's successor at Real last year but was sacked in October.

Lopetegui, however, said he harboured no ill feelings towards Real and was treating Sunday's game like any other.

"Three points are up for grabs tomorrow and that should be motivation enough for us even though we know what it means to face Real Madrid," he said.

"I have a very good memory of every club I've been at and always try to remember the positive things. I try to be responsible and ambitious and tomorrow will be no exception."

Real will be able to count on captain Sergio Ramos against Sevilla after he missed the PSG defeat due to suspension, although Marcelo is a doubt and Luka Modric is still injured.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he is paying no attention to heavy criticism aimed at him after the 3-0 defeat by Paris St Germain in the Champions League and is not bothered that Spanish media continue to link Jose Mourinho with his job.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane says he is paying no attention to heavy criticism aimed at him after the 3-0 defeat by Paris St Germain in the Champions League and is not bothered that Spanish media continue to link Jose Mourinho with his job. Real were up against an under-strength PSG side on Wednesday missing Neymar, Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe but produced a pitiful display, failing to register a shot on target in a Champions League game for the first time in 16 years. "I'm not interested in what is said outside the club, the day I pay attention to what's in the press is the day I leave," Zidane told a news conference on Saturday ahead of Real's visit to early La Liga leaders Sevilla on Sunday. "I feel in a strong position and I never give up. I will keep trying until the last minute and as long as the club will give me the chance to continue. I don't feel questioned at all." Spanish media have reported that Real president Florentino Perez would be keen to recruit former coach Mourinho, currently without a club, should Zidane be relieved of his duties. "I'm not bothered by the Mourinho speculation," added the French coach, who led Real to three consecutive Champions League titles before resigning in 2018 but has only won seven out of 16 games since returning to the club in March. "This is how the situation is, and whenever the team has a bad result the impression is that everything needs to change. It's difficult but it's the reality." Real have taken eight points from four La Liga games while Sevilla top the standings with 10 after making a flying start under coach Julen Lopegetui, who was named as Zidane's successor at Real last year but was sacked in October. Lopetegui, however, said he harboured no ill feelings towards Real and was treating Sunday's game like any other. "Three points are up for grabs tomorrow and that should be motivation enough for us even though we know what it means to face Real Madrid," he said. "I have a very good memory of every club I've been at and always try to remember the positive things. I try to be responsible and ambitious and tomorrow will be no exception." Real will be able to count on captain Sergio Ramos against Sevilla after he missed the PSG defeat due to suspension, although Marcelo is a doubt and Luka Modric is still injured.

Zinedine Zidane unfazed by Jose Mourinho talk as Real Madrid prepare for Sevilla test

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale expects his rocky relationship with the Spanish club to experience more turbulence despite a strong start to the campaign after almost leaving them in the close season.

The 30-year-old Welshman was involved in a tense stand-off with Zinedine Zidane during the off-season, with the coach stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning in July was scrapped.

"I understand I was made more of a scapegoat than most, I take it with a pinch of salt even though maybe it's not all fully fair," Bale told Sky Sports ahead of Wales' European qualifier against Azerbaijan on Friday.

"I wouldn't say I'm playing happy but... when I am playing I am professional and always giving all I can, whether that be for club or country.

"I'm sure there'll be plenty more turbulence... I suppose it's something you'll have to speak to Real about and it's between me and them... we'll have to come to some sort of conclusion."

Bale, who has been backed to remain in Spain after a change of heart by Zidane, said he had taken the turmoil in his stride and has since ended a scoring drought going back to March with a brace in Real's 2-2 draw at Villarreal last weekend.

"I know there was a lot of talk, with people saying the good, bad, or whatever they wanted ... things in football can turn quickly and it's just a matter of time," he said.

"It wasn't the worst time of my career, it's not been ideal but I know how to deal with it.

"You get rewarded with the work you put in and I've started the season well."

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale expects his rocky relationship with the Spanish club to experience more turbulence despite a strong start to the campaign after almost leaving them in the close season.

Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale expects his rocky relationship with the Spanish club to experience more turbulence despite a strong start to the campaign after almost leaving them in the close season. The 30-year-old Welshman was involved in a tense stand-off with Zinedine Zidane during the off-season, with the coach stating he was keen for Bale to leave, although a reported move to Chinese club Jiangsu Suning in July was scrapped. "I understand I was made more of a scapegoat than most, I take it with a pinch of salt even though maybe it's not all fully fair," Bale told Sky Sports ahead of Wales' European qualifier against Azerbaijan on Friday. "I wouldn't say I'm playing happy but... when I am playing I am professional and always giving all I can, whether that be for club or country. "I'm sure there'll be plenty more turbulence... I suppose it's something you'll have to speak to Real about and it's between me and them... we'll have to come to some sort of conclusion." Bale, who has been backed to remain in Spain after a change of heart by Zidane, said he had taken the turmoil in his stride and has since ended a scoring drought going back to March with a brace in Real's 2-2 draw at Villarreal last weekend. "I know there was a lot of talk, with people saying the good, bad, or whatever they wanted ... things in football can turn quickly and it's just a matter of time," he said. "It wasn't the worst time of my career, it's not been ideal but I know how to deal with it. "You get rewarded with the work you put in and I've started the season well."

Gareth Bale expects more turbulence at Real Madrid after pre-season woes

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