..:: Interviews ::..

I will post here the interviews with iker and we will discuss about them

"Real Madrid has taught me many values"

Iker Casillas was the special guest on Spanish television station La Sexta's new program, 'Habitación 623,' hosted by Olga Viza. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was asked a series of questions by various people that included Iker's brother Unai Casillas, Arantxa de Benito, Pipi Estrada, Enrique Cerezo, Manuel Amieiro and Trinidad Jiménez.

Are you shy?
Very! I have difficulty opening up to people. Once I've gained some confidence, I let myself go.

How does a football player become a star?
Of course a star has to be great on the pitch, but you also get to know players other ways: the press, television, commercials, etc. Someone who plays great football is a star, but he also has to have everything else. Beckham is a great example.

Does your personal life affect the way you play football?
Of course. We're all human and we have our weaknesses.

How do you celebrate when you win?
I make a fool out of myself and I don't worry about.

What did you think about when you went to training sessions with the first team in your Renault 19?
I was fine with it, but it clashed with all the nice cars. I was too happy to even care.

What do you do after losing?
I go home and don't want anything to do with anyone. I lose myself.

What do you do with your gloves after matches?
I save them for the next match until they tear.

What's your relationship with the press like? Have you learned anything from them?
They can tell you a lot. It's hard for a football player to be friends with a journalist, but I don't have anything to hide from anyone. I've been friends with journalists since I started in the Under-16 League.

What was the first thing you bought when you had enough money?
I bought a house for my parents and a car for myself.

What Atlético de Madrid player would you like to act in a movie with?
I get along with the whole team. Fernando Torres, Pablo, Antonio López, any of them.

What do you think about Atlético de Madrid fans?
We have the best fans so why would I want other ones? That said, Atleti has great fans.

Is your character based on the values you have learned since starting with Real Madrid when you were small?
Absolutely! It's been the philosophy that I've been taught since I first began. I've learned many values. I've learned that many people depend on my performance, for example. I feel sorry for the thousands of fans when we lose.

What are your thoughts on all the years of hard work and dedication?
I have to be thankful because I'm here today thanks to that hard work.

You're very committed to your city.
That's correct. I like to remember my roots. It's about helping those kids from my town so they know that hard work pays off and they can do anything they set their minds to.

You do realize you're many people's idol, don't you?
I know there are lots of kids that look up to me and it makes me really proud. When they have their pictures taken with me, I put my hand on their heart and it's beating so fast.

Are you embarrassed when you get scored on?
I get mad, not embarrassed.

www.realmadrid.com

How sweet, how lovely, how adorable!!!!!!I LOVE HIM!!!!he's so smart and handsome!!Every day I love him more!He said his fans are the best!!!yeee!!!I knew it!we're the best for Iker!!!And he said he is shy!How cute!I am shy too! :P

"It's win or win this Saturday"

For the fans, for the players, who want to get even after the Bernab�u match, and to secure the second position in the charts. Among others, these are the three motives that compel Iker Casillas to finish the game at the Camp Nou having pocketed the three points. Both him and the remainder of the squad are dying to win.

What did you think of the Benfica-Barcelona match?
:: Barcelona absolutely dominated Benfica. They had a lot of very clear scoring chances. Barcelona proved it's a great team and that they're a serious candidate to win the Champions League. Benfica's goalkeeper did a really good job. It's 0-0 and I don't think they'll have any problems winning at home. But what I'm really interested in is in winning on Saturday. Fatigue can be a factor when a team plays Wednesday and Saturday, but I think they are quite used to it.

Saturday can help to clear things up, whether positively or negatively for Real Madrid.
:: We're realistic. Our goal is to win at the Camp Nou to distance ourselves from the teams which are fighting for the second position. So, it's a question of win or win this Saturday. If they defeat us, they will almost certainly be League champions.

Would a win there make up for the season?
:: Not at all. We want to win for us and to pocket the three points.

Do you also want Barcelona to lose always?
:: I'm a Madridista since I was a little kid. I wish them all the best, but it's obvious I want them to lose. I have friends there so I respect the club. It's a very healthy rivalry.

Do you think their supporters might stand up and give you an ovation if you play a great game?
:: I don't know. We'll have to wait and see. Nobody applauded us during the Champions League encounter four years ago. If we play well, then great, but if we don't and we win, that's also great.

Against Deportivo you proved that when there's a will there's a way.
:: We've had good and poor games. Now you think of the points you lost at home. League championships have to do with regularity. When you play a game, it's always the player that is judged and not the person. Many things are taken into account when you play a team sport.

Logically, the same starting eleven as Deportivo will feature in Barcelona... and that means no Ra�l.
:: Competition for a position is a good thing, but the coach has the final decision. I'm sure that whoever features will be extremely motivated.
Eto'o is always very motivated against Real Madrid.
He's really progressed as a player. I understand him. His style of play really suits Barcelona, since they play really fast. Both him and Ronaldinho are in top form at the moment; it's something that's easy to see on TV. I'm not bothered by the fact that he always scores against me as it doesn't affect me that Torres never does.

How should you play against Barcelona, on equal terms or somewhat more defensively?
:: I like the team that plays every one of our games.

Are you thirsting for revenge?
:: It could be a revenge, because we are hurt after the 3-0 at home and the impression we left on the fans. But then you realise it's just another game.

There's two teams, but maybe no referee.
:: I respect the referees' position. They have the right to demand their pay. Talking things through normally solves them.

Has the ad you did with Ronaldinho improved your relationship with him?
:: Our relationship has always been good. Outside the pitch we almost never talk football.

What do you think of Figo's declarations about Real Madrid?
::I respect all opinions, so there's little I can add. But we have to look ahead. The past lies behind us.

www.realmadrid.com

On 30th March, Iker took part in some chat in AS.com. He has said the following message and answered these questions:

"Much thanks to everybody who have been at the other side of the chat, I hope I have answered to all of your doubts and I hope I'll see you here soon.
We'll try to make a good show on Saturday and to win the match.
Hugs."




- What you feel when Eto'o scores to you? He is the forward who has put you more goals. (Enric)
:: It is clear that when Eto'o puts a goal to you, or whatever, it bothers to you. With Samuel I do not have any problem, he tries to do his work and I do mine.

- Who is the soccer player who more respect gives you when you have it ahead? Who is the one that better kick penaltis? (Iker2)
:: There are many, from Henry to Ronaldinho, etc. I think that the one that better kick penaltis can be Villa, of Valencia.

- Iker, you are greatest. A result for this Saturday? I vote to give back them the 0-3. (Mori)
:: It is going to be difficult... 1-2

- Hello crack! I am from Barça, but I think you are the best goalkeeper in the world without a doubt. You discard to the 100% the possibility of playing some day for Barça? (Nato)
:: Man, we can't discard anything, but it would be very very difficult... I am glad that people of Barcelona appreciate my work, it is a pride.

- How does it influence on you the encouragement or the critic of the public when you are on the field? (Francis Martorell)
:: It was in the beginning when it hurt to me most, I was younger; but the experience that I am having makes me take the things with much more tranquillity and maturity. I always accept a critic, as long as it is with respect.

- Hello Iker, how do you think that the midfield of a team must be structured if they want to beat Barcelona in their field? (Futbolero)
:: Balanced. Barça handles the midfield very well, they play from the back, they have fast people upfield.

- Hello Iker, how do you prefer to face the match against Barcelona, dominating or playing the con? (m30.gol)
:: I prefer to dominate thematch and to know very well when you must play the con, when you must defend; I believe that that is the most important, although I know that to suffer and to win is also worth.

- Do you see yourself training Real Madrid when you finish your career as a player? (Luis)
:: I have not thought about it, but if I say the truth, yes I would like.

- Do you think that the soccer players have a social responsibility due to the salary you earn, in the sense of being a good example in charity matters? (Lex0807)
:: That is the will of each one, not because you are soccer player you must make those charity deeds. That goes in the responsibility of each one, either soccer player, carpenter or fireman...

- Do you think that the performance of a team depends more on the coach than on the will of the players? (Marugenia)
:: I believe that it depends on the players, who are the true protagonists of a football team; the coach can give you a little of his ideas, but then it is us who must put them into practice.

- Hello Iker! Now that you already know how success and failure feels (as a team). Which has been your greatest joy? Which was the worst moment? (Ramon Forte)
:: My greatest joy was the World Cup in Japan and Korea, and my worst moment when I lived the two lost finals of Copa del Rey with Real Madrid.

- Which player would you sign right now for Real Madrid? (ikercasillas1TK)
:: Difficult question. I think that right now with we have a great team, but the matter is that we have not worked. All the players here are good.

- Which has been the goal that has been put to you that you remember with greatest frustration and sadness? Which has been the save that you remember with greatest joy? (Germán Campos)
:: Perhaps in the season a 2001-2002, a semifinal against Bayern, goal by Elber, we were 0-1 and it left us outside. All the saves, almost always, are good.

- Hello crack, before nothing else, good luck for Saturday. My question. It is clear that being a soccer player for Real Madrid has given much to you in this life, and I suppose that almost everything is positive. But please, answer this sincerely, have you ever felt exhausted of everything included in being a soccer player for Real Madrid (responsibility, fame, etc...) and have you wished to return to your "old" way of living? Come on. (Jaime)
:: Everybody always misses what they do not have, and it is also true that when I was not a football player I thought about being it, and now that I am, I often wish to be calm at home and to go out in the evening and that nobody recognizes me. But I am been thankful because it is what I like.

- Hello fellow! I am also from Móstoles and of Real Madrid and believe that, aside from being the best goalkeeper in the world, you are the one that has greatest future career, given your age. Do you sincerely think that you will retire in Real Madrid? (SiRo Mostoleño)
:: Yes, of course, that would be my hopes, since I began here with 8 years old and I would like to retire in this team.

- Hello Iker. First of all, tell you that you are the best in the world. I love your game and mainly your way to confront the "hand by hand". Outside soccer are you also a handyman? Do you have some hobby apart from your profession? Thanks phenomenon. (Paco Miranda)
:: The truth is that I am not a handyman, I still should wise up. As any 24 year-old boy: to enjoy his people, with his friends...

- Iker, do you think that the time of some players in Real Madrid has finished? Beckham, Raúl, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, Míchel Salgado, Helguera... (cucho)
:: It is not that their time has finished, simply fo the past three years we have not been as good as other teams that have been phenomenal. But no, there are people with still much soccer left.

- Good morning champion, my question is: do you think that Fernando Martín is able to obtain just as much as Florentino Pérez obtained? In my opinion, Florentino's departure is going to be a hard misfortune in Real Madrid's performance. Thanks and answer, please. (murcianico)
:: It is necessary to give some time to people. When Florentino arrived, in the beginning, not everything was of pink colour. It is necessary to give some time and tranquillity above all.

- Do you sincerely think that you are the best goalkeeper in the world? (Sergio león)
:: No, I think that neither I am better nor worse than anybody, I have my style and that's all. That is something that should be judged by people, not me.

- Would you go someday to Barça? (Alicia Barreiro Cambeiro)
:: It would be very difficult to change of air. Here I feel very comfortable and very well.

- I have never felt so identified and thankful at the same time with a soccer player as when you went to hit that corner in the last minute. What did you think then? Iker, thanks for your madridismo, players like you or Sergio Ramos make that madridistas as us still feel proud. (Jesus Álvarez)
:: Then I thought about trying to make a landmark, but I knew that it was also very complicated. I believe that I went more with the heart than with the head.

- Hello Iker, you are a phenomenon, I have always admired you. You are an example for everybody. How is the classic against Barça? Do you make some special preparation for this type of matches? Good luck for the match on Saturday and Liga can be won. (Chimpu)
:: It is going to be a vibrant, difficult match and in which we risk assuring the second position. I don't try to be more concentrated than usual, because it is a match that is going to be watched by many people. Thank you very much, that we hope.

- Which coach would have to be in Real Madrid for next season? I would prefer Capello, and you? And do not tell me that yours is Lopez Caro. It is known that he won't stay¡¡¡¡¡¡ (arkan)
:: Although it is known that he will not stay, I think that he is making things very well. I would bet for Lopez Caro.

- Do you think that there is any midfield player with more future than Cesc? Is he ready to be able to play in Real Madrid? (MEDINA DEL CAMPO)
:: I think that the career that he has is very good and it is clear that any player who arrives at Madrid gets hardened. Example, Sergio Ramos.

- Hello Iker, do you have any particular superstition when you play in the Camp Nou? (javi)
:: No, any, like when I play in all the fields. It is clear that it is a field that impresses much, but I behave equal in it as in so many others.

- Would you like that Barça or Villareal win the Champions? (Jokin)
:: Man, yes, that they arrive as far as possible and that in that sense goes to them very well.

- Iker, what do you think of the rumors that locate Buffon in Real Madrid next year? Thanks. (derechos)
:: In Real Madrid there are always rumors of all type: of people who leave, who come... It is normal, Real Madrid is a great team.

- What do you think of Cesc? Don't you think that, given the good result that Spanish people is giving, Real Madrid should sign up spanish players? The last great signing which I saw Madrid did was Ramos. Cheers, stay this way, madridistas are proud of you. (Luis Pinheiro)
:: Cesc is a young boy that still it has to go blunt, but that the progression that he is having is very good. Of course, I love that Spanish players are signed, because I am for Spanish players. A strong hug.

- In a round of penalties, where do you suffer the most, in the bench or at the goal? regards and just tell you that you are the best! (VICEN/ BEJAR)
:: More in the bench. A strong hug.

- To what extent are the individual concentration and the unity of the group important in a sport like soccer? Have been the lack of ambition and confidence the weak points of Real Madrid for the last seasons? Good luck on Saturday. (madridista100%)
:: Just like a chain of a bicycle: if a pinion is broken, all the chain is broken. I believe that many more things have influenced, but it also may be the lack of ambition and confidence. Thank you very much.

- How is your relationship with Ronaldo? Would you say that he is a colleague or a friend? You are the best! Regards and hala Madrid. (Antuan)
:: Very good. He is more a colleague. It is like in every job, you always get on better with one than with another one, but at least there is a relationship.

- What do you think that must be changed in Real Madrid? (benji toldo)
:: I do not know, if I say the truth I do not know it. I am sorry, but I do not have any idea.

- Why is it that at some days you paly so bad, and other days, like the match against Depor, all the players played so great? (seba)
:: Because there are also days when we play bad, and other days when we play good. We cannot have a regular line, we cannot play all 38 matches good.

- Hello Iker, does the word "galáctico" bother you personally? How do you see it? (carlos)
:: It seems to me that it has been something by the press, more than anything, and it is clear that it has not made good to us. But well, we will try to remove that word.

- Do you think that Barcelona will beat Benfica, given the great game they did the other day? Go on Iker (rogelio15)
:: I believe that they made a good result: they did not conceed goals out, they created many occasions for goal, and at home they have everything to their favour.

- What do you prefer, a Champions final or arriving at World Cup semifinals? A hug Iker. (Madridista)
:: Uf! Man, from the two - I'm not sure, World Cup semifinals.

- Who is your best friend within the white team? (Alberto)
:: Almost all the players, I cannot tell you anyone because then I would lie.

AS.com

Casillas: It would ask a bit more to get the little dialogue with the referees"

Nobody doubts that Iker Casillas is the best goalkeeper of Spain, and many think that of the world. The goalkeeper of Móstoles was one of the speakers of the Luis de Carlos Forum, where he gave his forecast for the finals of the World Cup 2006, "Spain - Germany".

Who is the favorite for the World Cup?
:: Brazil is among the four or five favourite teams. But Germany comes last and is the host. But if I have to bet, evidently it will be my team that is Spain.

Is it not sad that in Barcelona - Real Madrid the majority of the important players are not Spanish?
:: Eversince all of the important players come to our league. Some are great and we are delighted to see them in our teams. Perhaps the national player suffers much more, but those players that come to the National Team have minutes (played) and confidence.

Would you like referees of high level?
:: I believe that the refereeing in Spain is good, they mistakes like everybody. But if it was for me, I would like more than a dialogue, that they are not so stiff and inaccessible. There are three or four referees that you can talk to. They'll tell you that they whistled because they have seen it this way. In itself, it may be wrong, but at least you get to see that the what the referee means good.

Do you see Raúl in the World Cup?
:: Yes, clearly. I am delighted because he is my colleague and a very important player.

Do you dream of getting the Zamora this year?
:: Its clear that it is a beautiful trophy and that a lot wants to win it. I would prefer to try to win other things. Being the goalkeeper less beaten means that you have done your job well, but it is a labor of the whole team. That will be to the best team.

Do you feel that you are at your best moment?
:: Yes, I am in an good moment and I feel that each day I go futher. I am 24 years old and each day that passes I grow and I find myself getting better. Little byt little the things are going to arrive and at the personal level a moment arrives where you see that you are no longer that kid who debuted at 18 years of age.

Was the game at the Nou Camp your best match?
:: No, we have had better, where we have won without conceding and goals. When you concede a goal, although its a penalty, you didn't have the best game.

These with the Aragonés in which he says about those concentrations?
:: I do not like them, and I believe that the height of the concentrations are damaged. Whena team plays a lot of competitions, the player needs air. I would bet on my own house.


Translated by Iker-Spain Team
www.realmadrid.com

IKER CASILLAS: “It was a combination of everything. Outside the box with one of their players close by...That was the moment. The first yellow was from arguing, but the second was just part of the game. Madrid has won with and without Casillas. We're a bit more relaxed, now that we have the goal-average advantage. We have to set our sights on Valencia. When playing for a spot in the Champions League, you don't remember a thing. All you think about is winning. It's a hard stadium to play in. They move the ball forward a lot and they can really turn things upside down with their foul shots.”
“The team responded and our defense played really well. I'm happy that I was able to stop the penalty. It boosts my confidence. Finishing second would be practically impossible if we drew or lost. It was a key moment of the game, but as much as anyone says, stopping a penalty is pure luck. I'd rate the team a 10 out of 10; from Raul to the very last player. We were phenomenal. I hope people recognise the effort we put forth. The Racing match is extremely important. They may relax too much, although they need to win to avoid relegation. The Osasuna - Valencia match closes out the season, and we need to be there with as much distance between us as possible to not have to depend on anyone but ourselves.”

www.realmdrid.com

"I just want to thank Zidane for the moments he has given to me"

Much to speak in the press conference offered today by Real Madrid's goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. In first term, words of praise for Zidane, of whom he has said is “better person than player”. Also, he has spoken about the changes in the board of directors of the Club, saying a message to the future candidates for the presidency: “I hope that the winner does anything for Real Madrid”. But in the mind of all the team only winning in Pamplona is the important matter, but Iker warns: “The atmosphere is always difficult there, even so, we will go into the field and do our best”.

Zidane's retirement
“The team is sad for the departure of the best player, but also because as a person he is even better. It is his decision, he thinks that is the best, and he leaves us in sorrow. We have asked him not to leave, but it is a very thought-out decision; I just want to thank him for the moments he has given to us”.

“This happens to all of us, when you do not get a title you are annoyed, I understand him, but all of us are guilty for not having obtained titles these years”. “Time goes by, now the news is Zidane's retirement, but then the World Cup will come, and the new season, and we must go on, Real Madrid goes on”.

Changes in the Club's board of directors
“It is clear that what we are living is hard to understand, it is normal that the supporters are confused, I am confused myself”. “There have been many changes, many movements, but if it is for the Club's sake, then it is perfect to me; but it is true that so many changes are not good”. “Calling an election is the chosen option, and I hope that the winner does anything for Real Madrid”.

“Three presidents in three months is not logical, but we can think only about Osasuna and must forget anything not related to football”. “We know the new president well, from trips, we will get on with him as well as always, besides the appointment”. “This morning we have not spoken about soccer, he has wished good luck to us and we have spoken about making the maximum effort from now till the end of the season”.

“In Real Madrid, everything is exaggerated for good or bad, we must think about soccer only. Real Madrid is more than a Club... for everything”. “We must face these bad times the best possible way. What happens in the Club is important to me, but I know my role and I am a football player”.

“We players have not won any title and we are hurt because it is not normal with the players that are in this team, but everything influences, and so many changes are not good for the team. But if we do not score, that is our fault”. “Our personal crisis is that we do not win titles, the Club does not go so badly, who does not know Real Madrid...”.

Duel in Pamplona
“We have Osasuna in mind only, we spoke about everything among the team, but we only think about assuring the second place”. “Aguirre is leading Osasuna to fight for important targets, and this year they will be in the fight for an access, directly or not, to the Champions. He has done a great job”.

“There is a difficult atmosphere in Pamplona always, but the match is won in the field, people support as they want, but we cannot think about that. It is a vital match, we must be concentrated and work for the goal average”.

The four finals left
“We risk a lot at the four matches, but also them, Sevilla can be in Champions, Racing's stay in the first division, UEFA for the Villarreal and Osasuna, who is a direct rival; they four will be very complicated but we must try our best”.

Barcelona in the final of the Champions
“Some time ago, we were in three finals, it is normal, if things go well you go to the final. It is necessary to learn of the no good seasons' causes that the good ones come”.

“Difficult final, both are great, fast teams that dominate the ball well, anyone can win it. I wish both good luck because in both I have friends”. “Last night I watched the first part... I feel envious (laughs)”. “Sincerely, if Barcelona wins, it will seem good to me because they are doing it very good, giving example of how soccer should be played. I feel good envy”.

The problem of the calendar
“I want Sevilla to win and go to the final, but this matter of the calendar has to be seriously arranged, above all because people, the international players, must have some minimum holidays, you cannot play on 20th May a match of Liga; the fatigue can be accumulated for the following season, I do not think that is the solution, but we will have to wait”.


Translated by Iker-Spain Team
RealMadrid.com

Haha Vera :lol:
IkeR is adorable indeed :yippy:

He's just Fantastic, Magnificent and Splendid
He's just everything :first:

I'm so pRoud become his fans :D

Casillas: "I sign to play the quarter-finals against Brazil."

Iker Casillas is assured that he would be enchanted if they surpass the first round of the World Cup in Germany, although later have to face Brazil in quarter-finals. "To me, you tell me that I must play the quarter-finals against Brazil and I sign it right now", indicated Casillas, that the condition of favourite recognised whatsoever the title of the from Rio de Janeiro Selection.

"Brazil has been in the last three finals and has won two, so they are the favourites", Casillas pointed out, that were taken hold to the format of a match like this one to lay the foundations their hopes of being able to eliminate the effective chapion in the hypothetical confrontation. "In the World Cup antyhing can happen, you can lose to Korea in penalties, or you can eliminate Brazil", assured the goalkeeper of Real Madrid, who analysed the expectations of Spain considering its historical trajectory.

"We left from the base of which Spain has never won anything in the World Cup so we are not favourites for anything, but we have expectations, by us and the fans, to arrive at the final and to win it. We are going to try to go as far as possible", he affirmed.

Casillas emphasized in addition that the entrance in the team to young ones like Cesc or Iniesta can give Spain a new impulse that allows him to surpass eliminatory that follows first stage, in that historically have been eliminated. "The new ones come from the lower categories and are customary to arrive at the final and can be good because they are people who are used to play semifinal and final", the goalkeeper indicated.

Praises to Raul
Casillas also spoke of the situation about his companion, Raul, who has just got over a serious injury in the knee. "I am with him everyday and I see him as phenomenal. He is working like all, with illusion and desire to make the things affluent and to put the difficult things away from him and the trainer", he emphasized. The Spanish international also analysed the mood of Asier del Horno, whose muscular injury could separate him from Germany. "He is annoyed because it is a great opportunity for any player to be in the World Cup. We trust that he recovers soon and can be with us", he said.

Casillas made these declarations in the Inn of Albacete, where tomorrow the selection faces Russia in first of the three encounters that they will be in before the World Cup starts. "In these three matches that we have it is necessary to try mainly to make a good running. Any result can occur, if desire better but if there are stumbles there is time left to rectify", he concluded.

Translated by Iker-Spain.com
Marca.com

"If we do not go into the World Cup doing our best we might as well remain watching it through the television."

The Spanish selection is the hands, and never better said, of its goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, a regular in Real Madrid.

Spain is in the hands of Casillas. One of the best goalkeepers in the world. In the installations from the La Rozas (Madrid) he is, possibly, the most requested player of the 23 chosen by Luis Aragones. The goalkeeper of Madrid knows that he is a key piece for the good operation of the national selection. Of a team that wants to change history. That dreams of doing somewhat large in Germany. That does not rule out being the champion of the world.

- The selection already is, as Luis wants, a team?
:: Little by little, yes. Each day the most compromised people and the work that we veterans have to do is to try to involve the young ones.

- Coincides that with 25 years recently you are one of the veterans and even, in absence of Raul, the captain.
:: Already, but it is that of the 23 players that there are, only six of us have participated in the World Cup in the past, and the experience that we have must serve the others.

- Is having so much inexperience good?
:: The new ones come from the inferior categories and that can be good because they are used to play in semi final and final.

- And you believe that in Germany they would be able to repeat some of those pleasing experiences?
:: We are mentally prepared to go as far as possible, that is to the end and to win it. Therefore, if you tell me that we are going to play the quarterfinals against Brazil, I will sign it right now.

- Another thing would be to win them.
:: In the World Cup anything can happen, you can lose to Korea in penalties and you can win Brazil. They are the great favourites. They have been in the last three finals, have won two and they are the present champions of the world. Surely that team does things well.

- And Spain?
:: We left from the base of which Spain has never won anything in the World Cup so we are not favourites for anything, but we have expectations, not only by us but by all the fans, to arrive at the end and to win it. We are going to try to arrive possible, but the further the better.

- This message of calm optimism is repeated by the coach and all the players. It is a slogan or they truly believe it?
:: What I have seen these first few days of concentration is that we are going to go one hundred percent. If to the World Cup one we do not give our best we might as well watch it on television. The people who go must think that he is going to do something important with the selection.

- In addition to the attitude, you also have to appeal in some occasion to luck.
:: Thus it is. You have to count on that luck that other selections have in penalties or in a match which you deserve to win and not desire. In the last World Cup it is what Spain needed.

- That one is the memory that you have left of the World Cup 02 (Korea and Japan)?
:: The memories that I have of World Cup have been very good except for one very bad one, that was against Korea and by the referee. We have seen World Cup in that Spain has remained in quarter finals by a precise play. We are going to think positive, and if we make the things affluent, we will have that luck that everybody wants.

- Do you think that you are the best goalkeeper in the world?
:: I am neither better or worse than anybody. I have my style and I prefer that I am the one that people thinks.

- For the players of Real Madrid, it has been a liberation to go to the call of the selection?
:: After the fiasco which we have had in Madrid, right now the selection is very important for us.

- And how you contemplate the presence of Raul and everything that people commented about him?
:: I am with him everyday and I see him as phenomenal. He is working like everyone else, with illusions and desire to make the things affluent and to put the difficult things away from him and the coach.

- In the most tactical aspect, you are lacking the most worrisome goal of the selection?
:: It is certain that to win you must go to the attack and score goals, but without neglecting the defense. In that sense we are doing very well. And in front of Russia we played very fast soccer, to the first touch and creating many occasions. This one line is good.

Translated by Iker-Spain.com
DiarioADN.com

Juan Carlos Ablanedo : "Iker Casillas is the best goalkeeper together with Buffon"

He was one of the best valued goalkeepers during his time, with three Zamora trophies and called twice for two world cups. However, the Gatu still have bitter memories of the two world cup meetings where they met with Mexico 86 and Italy 90 and not have disputed neither a minute defending the goalposts. But Juan Carlos Ablanedo, then Ablanedo II, was always characterised as one of the players that do not make bombastic statements and was always noticeable for his work and humility. Perhaps the humility is the better characteristic and something that his friends from in and out of the pitch have always known to value. Now he is dedicated to his real estate business but he still enjoys football especially with the coming World Cup in Germany that begins this Friday. His favourite team is not far away and could not be another other than Spain that is directed by Luise Aragones.

Is the goalpost better covered with the combined nationals?
:: We have three goalkeepers of the first line. So much like Casillas, as Reina or like Cañizares are players of guarantee and leading the world. It is clear that the first goalkeeper will be Casillas, but Reina and Cañizares also border a great height. The position is very well covered.

For you, the best goalkeeper of the championshio without doubt is...
:: It is difficult to select one but the debate will be centered between two goalkeepers: Iker Casillas and the Italian Gianluigi Buffon. Those two have experience keeping in mind their characteristics, they are the more complete that you can find in the world. There are good goalkeepers but if I have to choose, I will stay with the two.

La Voz de Asturias

Casillas: "If we defend as it is, we will adanve in the World Cup"

At 25 years old, he is one of the most respected goalkeepers in the world and the undisputed player of the Spanish team where he is also the second captain.

Madrid. Iker Casillas will live his second World Cup after the bittersweet experience of the Korea-Japan, where his sweet test was against Ireland during the last eight and the elimination against Korea during the quarterfinals, and assured that "there are reasons to trust in the selection". The madridista is one of the more affable players, one who never avoids conversation with the press no matter how thick his records become. The goalkeeper of Real Madrid attends to the DPA agency while the children behind the fences shouts his name, showing that he is one of the football selections referred to.

"We have to be optimists. We are defending very well and that is one of the keys to advance in the World Cup," he said after assuring that "the goal problem has a solution like was already demonstrated against Egypt". One of the virtues of Casillas is that is he is the eternal optimist and the 20-0 victory from Saturday kept his morale high.

Do you get bored after so many days of concentration?
:: Truly not. The chosen model for this preparation is very good. The city changes and the games allow the contentration more cuts. It is a new model for us and we hope that it will help to change the luck.

But is there no anxiety?
:: Yes, because it is what a player wants, that the World Cup arrives soon. But also we have a one and a half day of free time, that allows us to leave the environment and forget about football for a moment, that is always suitable. The team and the players are noting it.

The three friendlies against worthy rivals is another news...
:: It will serve to prepare us, to polish the defects that we have and to know how we want to play.

Does it cost you to adapt the new scheme proposed by Luis Aragonés?
:: I believe that he has talked much about the system and that is not for us. Certainly it is a new design that we have to use against the Ivory Coast, but I think that little by little, with the friendlies, we'll move ahead. It is only a matter of putting together the men and that is what we will attain before the World Cup.

This is your second World Cup and it arrives in different circumstances from that of Korea and Japan. How do you remember your debut?
:: I haven't forgot. I wasn't playing in Real Madrid and believed that I wasn't going. José Antonio Camacho, the coach, called me three months before and calmed me, telling me that I was going in spite of not playing. I was called, things at the personal level are left well and that signified the point of inflection in my sports career.

What did Spain lose in that World Cup?
:: Everything. We were eliminated by the host in a very unpleasant way, with the referee not calling... Me marked two legal goals. We lost a historic opportunity because we could've faces Germany in the semifinals, and I think that we were more superior to them. It give me kicks each time I remember that one.

And not the second captain of the Selection after Raúl...
:: Yes. How things change in only four years... There are more games and it hasn't been easy to be starting during the last four years.

Do you believe that Spain will respond to this World Cup with some more discreet expectations than the preceding tournaments?
:: Spain responds to this World Cup as covered and that is the correct thing. Up to now we haven't done anything important in the World Cup.

Spain goes to Germany with a team whose average age is 25. Is that positive or negative?
:: Very positive. It is good to give responsibilities to the young so that they feel like men as soon as possible.

What should Spain improve on in the remaining days?
:: The success before the goal, something that we should not worry much because the plays is good and depends only on good luck. We hope that the one against Egypt will be the start of something good.

And what aspect invites optimism?
:: There are reasons to trust the selection. It is a very solid group and we defend very well. If we continue not conceeding goals, it will be the key to advance in the World Cup.

Diario de Sevilla
iker-spain.com

Iker Casillas

"To make people believe, we have to beat every team"

In spite of his youth, Íker Casillas is quite a veteran of the Spanish side. As a matter of fact, in Raúl's absence, he's the Captain armband-bearer of Luis Aragonés' team. One of the best goalkeepers in the world was interviewed today by Spanish sports daily AS.

Spain gives you less work than Real Madrid?
They can't be compared. It's a mistake to think that a keeper feels safer because he doesn't get shot on often. A good cadence of shots helps you maintain your concentration, which is basic during a World Cup, because at any given moment you can lose a game by conceding a ridiculous goal and then, you're out. You have to be on your best wits at all moments.

Truthfully, did you expect such a good group stage, with three victories?
We never thought about that when we got to Germany. We learnt our lesson complete, even though it might sound as a cliché: we're taking it game after game, paying attention only to the next opponent. But we can't hide that we're happy because it's positive to start on such a good footing. It's not that easy! It would have been hard to overcome a bad start, trust me.

And now, France. Would you have preferred another rival?
France are a great side, but so are we. To make people believe, we have to beat every team.


Your experience with Henry wasn't all that pleasant. I'm talking about the Champions League Real Madrid-Arsenal game which you lost 1-0. Titi was the striker.
Yes, I have a negative memory of Henry, at least this year. It was very tough. But this match has nothing to do with the one at the Bernabéu. I hope this time I am the one left standing in the end.

The reigning euphoria and the high hopes of getting far are obvious. Why does this team, then, reject favouritism?
Simply because Spain has never done anything special in a World Cup. It's a good reason. All we've ever done is get to the quarterfinals. We've come to Germany to try to do better. We're aiming at the semis, the final, and, why not, being champions. But we're not favourites.

Can you tell that Spain is more attractive now?
We're a young generation and it seems obvious that people want to see new talents. Somehow, Spain has seen a generational changeover over the last few years and that's always pleasant if there are triumphs.

You speak of a new generation. What do you mean?
For whatever reasons, after the Japan&Korea World Cup the Spanish team was renovated. Things had begun with Camacho, they continued with Iñaki Sáez in the Portuguese Euro 2004 and Luis Aragonés is culminating that changeover now. The team has grown enormously over the last few years and still it is full of youngsters.

Did your life change a lot in the 2002 World Cup?
It was a very strange elimination for all of us. It was right out unfair. We would be speaking of a Spain that would have made it past the quarterfinals had it not been for the referee. But in spite of the negative ending, that championship made me, and other players who are also here, grow quite a lot.

Everyone praises this generation. Is it missing anything to be able to win the World Cup?
The team continues growing, but I think we have it all. Great defenders, high-scoring forwards, playmaking midfielders...

And a great keeper. With lots of experience in spite of only being 25. Does Casillas feel like a veteran already?
Well, actually, yes. In spite of my age, because I'm young, especially for a goalkeeper, I have been playing many years with Real Madrid and I'm already past the 60-cap line with Spain. Behind Raúl, who's the top-capped of all of the ones that are here. I'm proud of that.

It's very far away, I know, but have you though of a retirement age?
Yes, of course you think of those things. Many times, I have told myself that maybe 35 would be a good age to retire.

Ten more years among the elite, then.
More or less. Depending on how I feel.

At this pace, you would break many records, both in Real and in the Spanish team. Do you take account of Zubizarreta's 126 caps?
It's an incredible achievement and it wouldn't be bad to surpass it. But it will be very hard. There are many great stoppers in Spain and it's hard to stay on the top always.

Do you find it harder to do those incredible diving saves now than when you were 19 years old?
Age helps you mature in some aspects of the game, such as trasmitting calmness and confidence or being able to be better placed on goal, but you can certainly feel the passing of time. It's been many seasons diving on the ground and my bones hurt quite a lot. I might not have the same vitality as back when I was 17, but I manage the one I have better.

How about Raúl's vitality? It seems like he's back on the starting team...
Raúl is an essential footballer and an example for all of us. If he doesn't play, he rallies the team, makes us better.

It could be Zidane's farewell match with France if Spain win.
Yes, it's not pleasant to see Zizou step down, but it's obvious that I want Spain to win, and if that marks his last game... But we have to watch out for him. I hope it's not his day.

More potential meetings: Ronaldo in quarterfinals. Do you think that he's doing as bad as people say?
Ronie can score at any moment. I hope things go great for him, except if we face each other during the quarter-final stage.

Could it prove an advantage for you to know him so well from training with him every single day at Real Madrid?
Who knows. It could also be a drawback because he knows me well as a keeper. Let's leave it at: between what he knows of me and I of him, we're even.

Since we speak of Real Madrid, let us know if you're following the elections.
It's my team. How could I not read any news regarding this?! That said, my mind is completely focused on the national team.

Do you have any preferences candidate-wise?
All I hope is that, whatever candidate is elected, members will have chosen the best possible option, the one who does the best for Real Madrid, the one that puts the team and the institution back on the track of wining titles and making people proud.

Would it be fine to start with the World Cup?
Of course. That would also make all Madridistas happy.

www.realmadrid.com

28th July: Gordon inspired by classy Casillas

Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon has revealed his inspiration to play Champions League football came from Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas' heroic performance for the Spanish giants in the final against Bayer Leverkusen at Hampden in 2002.

Casillas, then just 20, came on for the injured Cesar with 22 minutes remaining and helped Madrid to a 2-1 win over the Germans.

He said: "Casillas was fantastic for Real Madrid in the last 10 minutes, making save after save and he eventually won them the trophy. That night proved to me that no matter how old you are, if you are good enough you can play there."

He added: "If you have the right temperament and quality you can play at any level.

"But I can still improve, ask any goalkeeper and they will say the same.

"Ask me in 10 years' time and I will say the same thing, you don't stop learning."

www.soccer365.com