Jose Mourinho says that Real Madrid’s task in the Champions League group stages is to target qualification, rather than to win every game.
Los Blancos begin their quest for a 10th European Cup on Tuesday in welcoming Manchester City to the Santiago Bernabeu.
But, with Borussia Dortmund and Ajax completing Group D, Mourinho is hesitant in making bold declarations.
“We're talking about a group with four champions – champions from four important countries, especially City and Borussia. Ajax also have their history,” he told UEFA’s official website in an interview published today.
“Obviously the main objective isn’t winning all six games, but to qualify. When I arrived at Real Madrid, the club weren't even seeded in the [group stage] draw – that said a lot.
“Now we are after reaching back-to-back semi-finals and we will do everything to capture Madrid's 10th European Cup.”
“Real Madrid is the club of the Champions League for its history and for the numbers. The only way to win the 10th though is by playing well, planning well and having great motivation to win.
“But, football is so beautiful in that it becomes unpredictable and so sometimes the best don’t win.”
The Coach was also asked about his two summer signings, Luka Modric and Michael Essien.
“We have chosen to have a small squad, but with versatile players that can provide us with the necessary stability. Modric gives us all that. He has a kind of magic all great talents possess.
“Essien I know well and his experience is going to be in bringing in defensive work.”
Real have endured an uncertain start to the 2012-13 campaign, winning the Supercopa de Espana, but dropping eight points from just four games played in the League.
