Real Madrid assistant Coach Aitor Karanka believes the club’s Super Cup victory over rivals Barcelona will be a ‘launch pad to even more success’ this season.
The former Los Blancos centre-back filled in for Coach Jose Mourinho in his Press conference ahead of the Granada game on Sunday evening.
The Portuguese tactician was in England to watch Champions League opponents Manchester City against Queens Park Rangers today.
“The Getafe game allowed us to draw conclusions,” began the assistant to today’s reporters.
“On Wednesday we then had an immediate response, and I hope that it is a launching pad for us to continue towards even more success.”
Karanka spoke about Madrid’s transfer campaign, including commenting on Ricardo Kaka, Michael Essien, Lassana Diarra, Luka Modric, Nuri Sahin and Ricardo Carvalho.
“The Coach has already spoken about Kaka’s situation. We have ended up keeping him and he will be a useful asset to the team.
“What is most clear is that if Kaka stayed with us, then we would support him. What matters in the end is what is important for the team, and that this team can use him.
“We received an offer for Lass and we accepted it as we knew Essien was coming in. He is a great player and will add a lot of professionalism to our team.
“Modric has trained very well and is desperate to play, he just needs time. He came in against Barcelona with great enthusiasm.
“Carvalho’s case is different, he has a contract, and over time we will sort it out. Meanwhile, it is an important time for Sahin, and all I can do is keep thanking him for all he gave us.”
The former Athletic Bilbao man also commented on Andres Iniesta winning the best player in Europe award from UEFA on Friday.
“It is clear I would have given it to Cristiano Ronaldo as he is our player, but the fact it was a Spanish player is important.”
