Rafa Benitez says he is seeking a “balanced” Real Madrid who can attack and defend in equal measure ahead of Sporting Gijon in La Liga on Sunday.
Los Blancos start the new campaign in Asturia this weekend, marking the 55-year-old's first competitive match in charge, and he believes the key to success under his tenure will be a joint commitment to scoring goals and keeping as many clean sheets as possible.
“We're approaching our first competitive match with excitement, pride and satisfaction, and hopefully there will be joy after the game,” he began.
“I'm working with all the players in order to promote competitiveness. I've said many times that I'm convinced [Karim] Benzema is a great striker, so I've challenged him to score 25 goals.
“In addition, we have [Cristiano] Ronaldo, Jese [Rodriguez] and [Borja] Mayoral. Currently, we're not seeking a No 9.
“[In response to Luis Enrique's claim that Barcelona are favourites for the title], Real Madrid are a great team who will fight for the title.
“The position of the players depends a lot on how the game develops. Cristiano [Ronaldo] starts on the wing, comes inside and ends up almost always in the box.
“All my attackers are free to express themselves whereever they feel most comfortable. Cristiano [Ronaldo] likes having freedom the most and so do I.
“I have a great squad and I'm totally satisfied with it. Madrid are a big club and always linked with the best players in the world. My job is to improve [the existing squad] further.
“We're at the beginning of the season and it's not easy to work when you travel as much as we did in the summer.
“There are details to polish and things that are already working well. I'd like for there to be talk of a winning, entertaining and fun Madrid, who have that balance of scoring goals, giving their opponents as least chances in front of goal. That translates into fewer goals conceded and more points, wins and trophies.
“To fight for the League title, we must start off by doing well against Sporting [Gijon].
“We believe we can win, with respect for our opponents and affection for a team like Sporting.
“Their return to La Liga is a joy for everyone. We have to face this match as we would any other game; trying to win, getting the three points and – if possible – playing well.”
