Casillas: We are not afraid of Barcelona

(GSM) – Iker Casillas is Real Madrid’s captain after Raúl’s emotional departure to Schalke 04. The Spanish goalkeeper talked about the responsibilities he has inherited from Raúl. He also spoke of his expectations for the season under new manager José Mourinho at a press conference in Los Angeles.

“There have been changes, and I feel a great responsibility,” Casillas revealed.

“It is a personal challenge to take the place of an emblem like Raul. The people who have been captain have demonstrated professionalism. I’ve had very good examples, I learned with everybody and say thank you to all.”

The World Cup-winning goalie holds high hopes for the season ahead with the arrival of Mourinho, after meeting the coach during the tournament in South Africa.

“Actually I spoke with him on the phone and I saw him when I arrived in South Africa,” he said.

“Now we have talked long and hard, he has high hopes of doing well and it presents a great challenge. The good news is that we have a young group with great gusto and great force.

“Madrid should be aiming at all three competitions, but we know that we have to fit all those who have arrived, including the coaching staff, and we must not become obsessed with winning the league, the Champions League or the Cup; We must go step by step and think about the start of the league.”

With the season so close, Casillas was of course questioned over the highly-rated contest with Barcelona this year and denied that the World Cup success was a victory for Barca.

“It was built from four years previously, when Barcelona had not won La Liga,” he stated.

“Barca will have to play us one on one and we have nothing to be afraid of. We will not be left behind, we also have great players and young players. It is always motivation to beat a great team like they are and we need to bring joy to Madrid fans.”

One of those young players is new signing Sami Khedira, and Casillas understands the importance of his new role as captain to help his team-mates:

“The goal now is to help him feel at home. He is new, a kid, and has the difficulty with the language, but we all will do our best to make him welcome.

“As time passes he will be more comfortable. “