Navas: How Zizou improved Madrid

Keylor Navas has explained how Zinedine Zidane’s “clear philosophy” helped Real Madrid win the Champions League last season.

Zidane guided Madrid to an 11th European cup and within just two points of from the La Liga title during a campaign that appeared to be heading for oblivion under Rafa Benitez, and Navas claims his teammates were instantly infected by the Frenchman’s charismatic ways.

“I’m working with the hope of improving what I’ve done so far, becoming a better person and a better player,” the goalkeeper said in an interview with Adidas, Marca reports.

“I’m facing the season with great enthusiasm and desire to work hard, and we know that we must give everything.

“I have the advantage of now knowing how the club operate and how to work with my teammates. Things that were new to me are now quite familiar. You can always improve and learn.

“We understand [Zidane] well. He has a clear philosophy and we all tried to understand what he wanted as quickly as possible so we could implement it on the pitch.

“One of the things that helped us win the Champions League was that we learned very quickly [what he wanted] and we had very clear ideas. Ultimately we achieved the objective we had in mind.

“I try to remember everything [from the CL final]. Before reaching the final, I set myself a goal – to enjoy and live [the final] to the fullest, regardless of the outcome.

“They are unique moments and I tried to live them with intensity, enjoying moments of happiness and that of others who had to work hard. Becoming champions was the icing on the cake.

“I have a good friendship with [goalkeeping coach Lluis Llopis], but we’ve always managed to divide what is friendship and training.

“On the pitch, he treats everyone equally and if he has to correct me, he will. He’s always eager to help so we can improve. He’s a great coach.

“It’s a privilege [to be considered an idol in Costa Rica], and I always try to do my best. I try to be a good example for all the young lads.

“I always try to give the best of myself. I hope they become great professionals in the future and that I was able to do my bit [in their development].”

Tags Keylor Navas
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