Real Madrid defender Pepe has said the squad is excited about the start of the new campaign and can’t wait to get started next weekend against Real Betis.
Los Blancos have a new look about them this season, with Carlo Ancelotti taking the reigns at the Santiago Bernabeu following the departure of Jose Mourinho.
And a number of youthful additions have been made to the team, such as Isco, Daniel Carvajal, Asier Illarramendi and Casemiro.
The side will be looking to put right the missed opportunities of last season, when Los Merengues lost too much ground in the title race early on, were dumped out of the Champions League at the semi final stage, and lost the final of the Copa del Rey on home turf against city rivals Atletico de Madrid.
Portuguese international Pepe stated: “The most important thing is to start the Liga off well with a win. We’re working very hard and we’re trying to prepare ourselves psychologically as fast as possible in order to adopt the boss’s philosophy.”
He also spoke in glowing terms about his new Italian manager, saying Ancelotti is very personable and like to spend time with the players.
“The boss knows a lot about tactics and we’re really pleased to be learning with him. He’s very approachable and friendly with the footballers and he’s always checking in on each of us. He likes it when his team plays football and things are turning out well,” he said.
