Zinedine Zidane has revealed his frustration that Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman has so openly discussed the referee’s performance during Real Madrid’s 3-1 win away at Eibar last Sunday night.
A controversial moment occurred when a Yoshinori Muto header inadvertently hit the elbow of Ramos in the box, which Koeman said in his press conference on Monday should have been a penalty.
“It bothers me because I never get involved with the referees,” Zidane said when asked about Koeman’s comments during Tuesday’s pre-match press conference.
“The referees are part of the game. They can make mistakes, like the players and like all of us in life. With respect to the comments from Koeman, I’m not saying anything as I’m just thinking about tomorrow’s game [against Granada].
There have been five penalties awarded against Real Madrid since Barcelona’s complaints, so does Zidane think there is any reason behind this?
“It is true that there is a lot of talk when there is something specific with Madrid and the referees, this is what Madrid [have to deal with],” he explained.
“It’s a bit annoying talking about this, we are interested in tomorrow’s match. We have to be focused.”
The Frenchman stated that Luka Modric is unavailable for the match against Granada, but more as a precaution.
“He has some discomfort and let’s hope it’s not much,” Zidane said.
“But as always we’re not going to risk him, and we’ll see if we can get him back during these days of rest.”
Eden Hazard is a subject of much debate at Real Madrid, with many hoping to see him back in action before long, but Zidane is remaining patient.
“Emotionally maybe it hasn’t been easy until now, but now he seems well,” he revealed.
“You have to do things with patience, little by little.”
Marco Asensio has come in for some criticism in recent weeks for his lack of impact off the bench, yet the Real Madrid coach still has faith in him.
“I have always trusted him and that’s the most important thing,” Zidane confirmed.
“Now the team is playing well and it is true that the last few games he has not played much, but what he has to do, like everyone else, is to contribute what he knows.”
Spain’s Christmas lottery took place on Tuesday and Zidane was asked which player he would buy if he won.
“Well, I’d like the money to be kept for another thing,” he responded.
“The situation is complicated. So, we’re not going to ask for anything.”
Source: Marca
