Kempes surprised at Real´s lack of glamour

Former Argentina international Mario Kempes says Real Madrid are no longer as respected as they used to be.

The 57-year-old said the Santiago Bernabeu side was always seen as one of the greatest club sides and is surprised that they seem to have lost some of their sparkle in recent years.

“There is a lack of respect toward Real Madrid in my opinion. They have always been the best club and were acknowledged as such,” Kempes said in an interview with Radio Marca.

“However, there doesn’t seem to be much enthusiasm for Real Madrid these days. Perhaps the club has lost some of its glamour.”

The former Valencia star then went on to praise the Copa del Rey holders’ team spirit and added that they are Barcelona’s only serious rivals for domestic glory.

“They have become a real team under Jose Mourinho. They used to be a group of individuals, but that has changed. Even Cristiano Ronaldo has developed from a selfish goalscorer into someone who likes to pass the ball.”

“They will fight it out with Barcelona for the Primera Division title. Levante won’t keep their current form up.”

Kempes represented Argentina at three different World Cups and finished as the leading goalscorer at the 1978 tournament.