Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema says boss Zinedine Zidane has given the players boost since taking over last month.
The 1998 World Cup winner took over from Rafa Benitez in January and head steered Real to five wins and a draw in his first six games. The team is playing with much more confidence while the players look relaxed and happy in training – a stark contrast to the final days of the short Benitez reign.
“He was a top player and now he’s a good coach. He offers the team a lot – he gives us confidence and his ideas on how to play, and that’s all positive for us. I’m learning a lot from him every day. And it’s not just me. That goes for the whole team, because he knows a lot about the game,” Benzema told bwin ahead of the Champions League match with Roma.
Asked for his thoughts on the match itself against the Seria A side, Benzema said they should not underestimate their opponents but will be confident of progressing.
“We are Real Madrid, and for me we’re the best team in the world and we’ve got the best defenders in the world. Roma will be going out to get the win, because it’s an important game and they’re at home. But we’ll also be going there for the win, because we know that what happens in the first leg is crucial if we want to get through,” he commented.
