Ivan Zamorano has recalled what it is like to play in a match pitting Real Madrid against Barcelona and Luis Enrique’s approach to the fixture.
Zamorano played with Enrique for Madrid against Barca, including the famous 5-0 win for Los Blancos in which he scored a hat-trick and Enrique was also on target.
Enrique later left for Barca and became identified with La Blaugrana, appointed Coach in the summer, with Zamorano telling AS that he sees Enrique passing on his fervour for El Clasico to his players.
“The 5-0 has special significance. It was one of the most magical nights I experienced as a player,” Zamorano said.
“Enrique is another who lives these games. He is very passionate when it comes to training and this type of issues but in the Clasico, he is transformed.
“He really wanted to beat Barca and today I see the same thing in the players. He has influenced Barca with his character and that is what he was like as a player.”
Zamorano looked back upon the meaning of El Clasico, acknowledging that to many, there is more than just football at stake.
“The first thing you learn is that it’s a game you must win and you understand that it’s more than just a struggle between two football teams,” he added.
“It’s a fight between the people, with social and political issues of the capital against independence.
“This is the type of game that motivates you. I was lucky enough to play in these games and score important goals.
“I have my war wounds from the Clasico. Miguel Angel Nadal kicked me and left a mark [on his thigh].
“Yes, Rafa’s uncle hit me hard that time at Camp Nou but that’s what you have to live with in El Clasico.”
Zamorano admitted to some torn loyalties due to the presence of compatriot Claudio Bravo in goal for Barca and admits he has been impressed by the Chile international.
“As a Chilean I wish him well, but I want Madrid to win,” he continued.
“My heart is with Madrid other than the desire to see Bravo, or Alexis Sanchez, at the time, who was spectacular.
“Aside from Bravo’s record [of clean sheets] he has been very safe, always ready and committed and able to transfer that security.
“He has gained enormous maturity and has won respect and admiration amid the pressure of being in Catalonia. He’s more concerned with the match than with his record.
“It’s been said that this is Barvo vs. Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s not. It’s Madrid vs. Barcelona.”
