Claudio Taffarel has backed Jose Mourinho’s judgement over Real Madrid’s goalkeepers, commenting that Diego Lopez has been ‘perfect’ for Los Blancos.
Retired goalkeeper Taffarel, who now works as goalkeeping Coach at Galatasaray, reflected this week on the issue at Madrid over whether Lopez or Iker Casillas should be first choice.
“I believe that the decision Mourinho has taken is correct, because Diego Lopez has done a great job since he came to Madrid,” the World Cup winner told AS today.
“He starts and deserves to remain starting. He has great ability and, in my opinion, is in great physical shape at the moment. I think better than Casillas, who has had an injury.
“I saw him in the tie against Manchester United and he was perfect. Really, Diego Lopez’ performances since returning to Madrid have been perfect.
“Casillas is highly competitive in training? Yes, but really Mourinho’s decision is correct. For a Coach you must think only of the team’s success, analyse who is playing well and put them in the starting line-up.
“You cannot turn this into a controversial topic. Honestly I think it is not a serious matter. Diego is perfect and if he keeps playing well then he will continue to be a starter.
“Mourinho is absolutely right on this issue. It is normal what he is doing.”
Taffarel’s Galatasaray welcome Madrid to Istanbul this Tuesday looking to turn around a 3-0 first leg defecit in the Champions League quarter-finals.
“The return match will be very difficult, but we have a small chance to qualify. I am convinced that we will play better than we did at the Bernabeu. There are 90 minutes ahead for us to show our quality.
“Everything is possible in football. It is difficult to say that we will win 4-0, but we are Galatasaray.
“Additionally, playing at the Ali Sami Yen will be an advantage to us. Our fans are very passionate. Tomorrow there will be a spectacular atmosphere, very good.”
