[ad_1]
Marco Asensio could have gone to Barcelona but thanks to Rafa Nadal’s uncle he ended up at Real Madrid. He spoke about it, his injury and more in an interview with Post United.
On July 24, 2019, Marco Asensio of Real Madrid suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a preseason friendly against Bayern Munich that ended his season before it began. After a long road to recovery, the Mallorcan striker returned to the field in June against Valencia, scoring a goal 30 seconds after entering as a substitute.
The 24-year-old Spaniard has given an interview on the Post United podcast, in which he has discussed in detail his horrific injury and the lessons he has had in it, as well as his current situation since he made his happy return.
Marco Asensio on Real Madrid
How do you handle the pressure with everything that is expected of you?
I am very excited for this year, I had a very difficult year due to the tear of the anterior cruciate ligament and when you injure yourself you realize that, on a day-to-day basis, you take it for granted when you are well. I have worked hard to make this year a good one for me.
Bale has left and no one has entered. Do you have the confidence of Zidane?
I always have. Now I have to show it in the field and that is my intention, I will say again that I am very excited for this year.
Was there really no need for new signings?
Much has been said about this issue, but I think we have one of the best squads in the world, with a lot of depth. We can all play and it is important that we are prepared to do so, because the calendar will be very demanding.
Can Sevilla and Atléti fight for LaLiga?
Yes, Atléti has been fighting for several years and Sevilla has a great coach (Julen Lopetegui) and a great team. They are rivals of LaLiga, without a doubt.
Who is the rival to beat in the Champions League? Bayern? Liverpool?
The champion is always the rival to beat. The Champions League is very tough and that adds more value to what we achieved a few years ago. Each season the teams are more prepared and anyone can face you. It will be difficult, but we have the dream of reaching the final.
Asensio on his injury
With the injury, did you ever think that you would not play again?
First of all, the most important thing is to be informed. I had no idea what he had and asked a lot to know for sure. Once you get used to the idea, in my case, I became aware and thought: “it will be hard but you have to go back”. And so it was from day one.
What was the worst thing you remember about your injury?
The way to the hospital by ambulance. I was in a lot of pain; the ambulance was going super fast and there were lots of potholes. I was on my mobile, talking to my family … it was very difficult.
What positive aspects have you learned from the injury?
Value my health in general much more; to be able to enjoy football again. It strengthens your mind a lot and you start taking training and preparation more seriously … I think this has had more positive than negative things.
Do you feel stronger than before?
I feel very good. At the end of last season, I was still recovering my rhythm, it is a difficult and slow process, but I have worked very well to feel fast, strong, with that spark that is needed to play at a high level and I am very good. .
What a goal against Valencia, 25 seconds after returning to the field …
At that moment you remember the 11 months of not being able to play and it is an explosion of emotions, of joy, of almost not being able to hold back the tears. I remembered everyone, my family, the doctors … It was super special.
How was the change to the number ’11’?
With the ’20’ I had completed a stage of my career and was excited to have a new number. The 11 t-shirt camp, I liked it and took it. I want to grow in this club with that.
Asensio on finishing at Real Madrid
Is it true that you could have gone to Barcelona?
Yes, I could have, but also to other clubs. There are always large interested clubs asking about your situation. When I signed for Madrid it was all very fast, the treatment was spectacular and they showed incredible interest. When that opportunity presents itself, it is impossible to say no.
And is it true that Rafa Nadal recommended his signing?
So they say! He likes football and Madrid a lot. His uncle was part of the sports management in Mallorca. He called and said: “there is a very good boy who has to play for Madrid.” It was me and that’s how it started.
Have you received a great offer from Liverpool?
There are many clubs that have been interested in many moments, but my idea is to continue succeeding in Madrid. I want to stay here.
Other than Zidane, who was your idol as a child?
Raul. He was an example that I like to follow in Madrid because he was Spanish, the captain, and for what he gave to the fans beyond goals … He is a very good example for me for everything he gave to the fans .
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
[ad_2]
