Real Madrid conquered the UEFA Champions League for the fifteenth time earlier this year, further cementing their history as one of the greatest clubs of all time.
The team’s run to the title was impressive in multiple ways, especially considering how they knocked out champions in Bayern Munich and Manchester City along the way.
Having won the title six times since 2014, the Merengues are undoubtedly considered the kings of the competition and have established themselves as the team to beat. The confidence, at this point, is visible in the players’ calmness on the field.
Speaking to AS in a recent interview, Barcelona and Spain legend Cesc Fabregas commented on a plethora of topics that included points on Real Madrid and their success in recent years.
The Spanish legend was first quizzed on whether he would accept the chance to coach Real Madrid given his affiliation with Barcelona, to which he did not close the doors.
“I listened and analyzed offers as a player and I will do so as a coach. You never know which way life is going to take you. Out of respect, I always listen and analyze.”
Fabregas then went on to comment on what set Los Blancos apart in Europe and how they went on to conquer the field with immense conviction.
“I recently commented on the calmness and the way the team and the fans manage their emotions at the Bernabéu.”
“The fans have become used to knowing how to suffer at critical moments because they understand that at some point something special can happen. But that is not the only thing that makes them win, far from it,” he added.
He then went on to add how, at this point, Los Blancos were perennial favourites in the event.
“Real Madrid is a club that is expected to win or do very well in the Champions League. In addition, they have and have had some great players.”
Speaking on the pressure that comes with wearing a shirt like that of Real Madrid, Fabregas said,
“[The pressure is] A lot. The shield you wear on your shirt is very important and that of Madrid weighs a lot, both for the good and for the bad.”
“The soccer players have shown how to manage very complicated situations such as against City or Liverpool. They are super competitive,” he added.
Finally, the Como manager gave his two cents on Toni Kroos and the legacy the midfielder left on football.
“Kroos represents all the things that have to be done well to be competitive. He has quality, temperament, philosophy, consistency.”
“He has been a great legend of Real Madrid and is one of the best midfielders in the history of football. I am happy for the career he has had. The time to leave is a very personal thing and it must be respected,” he concluded.