Real Madrid defender Pepe has said the side is ready to have a spectacular season and put the club back on the trophy trail.
Los Blancos enjoyed a 22-game winning run last season as they looked to be heading towards the title, but some poor form at the turn of the year saw Barcelona catch up and eventually overhaul them in La Liga. Carlo Ancelotti’s men were defeated in the semi-final of the Champions League too, with old boy Alvaro Morata coming back to haunt Real with two goals over the two legs.
The Italian manager has now been replaced by Rafa Benitez and Pepe told Marca he is looking forward to a successful campaign ahead.
Speaking to the Madrid-based daily, he stated:”I can’t wait for pre-season to start; I’m looking forward to returning to Madrid, linking up with my team-mates again, meeting Rafa Benitez and getting down to work.”
The Portugal defender added: “I’m really motivated because I’m convinced a spectacular season is in store for us. If we all work our guts out and pull together in the same direction, success will come, I have no doubt about that. We respect all our opponents, but we have a huge amount of quality in our squad.”
