Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has talked pressure, personality and Jose Mourinho in a revealing interview.
The Frenchman spoke with UEFA.com ahead of Real's trip to face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday.
“Pressure has been part of my life since I was at Lyon, but here its more intense because I'm at the best club in the world,” the 24-year-old began.
“But I don't feel pressure during games otherwise I'd be paralysed and unable to play. I forget it by talking to my little brother.
“Overall I'm quite shy. When people get to know me they realise I like to have fun and I'm always laughing.
“The Coach has worked with me on the mental side of the game. Now I'm stronger in that regard. I've had many ups and downs in Madrid, but I'm still here. Mourinho is a great Coach and very supportive.”
Los Blancos were knocked out of the Champions League at the semi-final stage last year but with time Benzema has been able to reflect on that campaign positively.
“Unfortunately we lost to Bayern Munich on penalties, and we were all disappointed because we thought we could win the competition. But looking back, I think we had a great campaign.
“Borussia Dortmund are a great team. It'll be a tough game as those against Manchester City and Ajax were. It's up to us to go there and achieve a great result.”
