ZZ strop: ‘Get Real over refs’ ZIDANE BLASTS RIVAL PIQUE’S ALLEGATIONS
Real Sociedad v Real Madrid
ZINEDINE ZIDANE has shot down suggestions Real Madrid are receiving preferential treatment from referees following La Liga’s return.
The Real gaffer was responding to claims from Barcelona’s Gerard Pique that their title rivals are favourites – and benefit from decisions.
Madrid can move level on points with leaders Barcelona by beating Real Sociedad tomorrow but Zidane is refusing to get dragged into mind games.
He said: “The referees are not favouring us. And that is it. I have my opinion, but I’m not going to respond to Pique (below). Each person will think what they think.
“All I have to say is we’re thinking about this upcoming game, because the truth is that it’s all that matters to us right now.
“What interests me is the game.
What we want to do is play on the pitch. I’m the way I am, it’s my way of being.
“I’m like that, I take advantage of everything that affects me in life.
“I’m lucky enough to be able to do what I like and not everyone can say the same. I can also complain in life like many people, but as a coach, it will not change anything by talking about one bad thing.
“I’m very positive in my life. Whatever happens is not the most important if you give your all.”
Real will come up against a familiar face with Norwegian midfielder Martin Odegaard aiming to catch the eye against his parent club.
“He’s doing really well for that club,” said Zidane.
“He is our player contractually, but we have to remember he plays for another club. We’ll have to wait to see what happens with him for next year. The good thing is that Real Sociedad have been able to enjoy him this year.”
While Gareth Bale has been on the fringes in the first two games of the restart, Karim Benzema has shone.
The Frenchman, 32, scored arguably the goal of the season against Valencia last week but Zidane hasn’t seen much change in the striker’s approach in the last few years.
Zidane added: “No, I don’t think he’s changed a lot.
“He has more experience after being here for so long, but he is the same player in my view.”