Real Madrid

Zidane : Real Madrid will be fine by February

Whilst victory over Borussia Dortmund sees Real Madrid end the group phase on a positive note, it is difficult to get away from the problems that have plagued Los Blancos' 2017/18; however Zinedine Zidane remains convinced that things will turn out well.
The French coach has done an incredible job of remaining positive in the face of criticism this term and this must trickle down to the players and keep their spirits up.

"I am convinced that by February, we'll be fine," he explained in his post-match press conference.

"After the break, we'll be okay; we are looking forward to the draw on Monday even though a difficult opponent is coming.

"I don't care what team we play, this doesn't take place until February."

Despite his upbeat mood, problems continue to mount up for the former Juventus midfielder as Raphael Varane was forced off through injury on Wednesday.

The defender has struggled through many injuries in the past and thi is a further setback, although the full extent is not yet known by the coach.

"He has hurt himself and we have to wait the scan results that will come tomorrow," Zidane intimated.

"He doesn't think it's a serious problem, but he is definitely out for Saturday.

"We will find a solution. Marcos Llorente can play there, he has done it before."

The manner in which injuries have decimated Los Blancos' LaLiga campaign in the first half of the season has been damning, as such it is expected that the club will be busy in the January transfer market, something which Zidane feels is a possibility.

"There is a possibility we will do business," he confirmed. "From January 1 to January 31, we can sign players.

"We'll have to see what happens, we have this opportunity every year and we always take stock and see what's possible."