Castro focused on Levante's task at hand, not Real Madrid's woes
Levante boss Luís Castro remains laser-focused on his own team's preparation ahead of their trip to the Bernabéu, dismissing concerns about Real Madrid's recent struggles.
Levante manager Luís Castro is keeping his eyes firmly on his own team’s challenges rather than Real Madrid’s recent troubles as they prepare for their Saturday clash at the Santiago Bernabéu.
No time for Madrid distractions
Despite Real Madrid’s recent wobbles, Castro made it crystal clear where his focus lies ahead of this weekend’s fixture: “No me preocupa lo que pase allí, tengo mucho trabajo aquí” (I’m not worried about what happens there, I have plenty of work here).
The Levante boss isn’t buying into the narrative that this might be an opportune moment to face the Spanish giants, who’ve been below their usual standards lately. For Castro, the timing is irrelevant - Madrid are Madrid, regardless of form.
“The matches against Real Madrid come when they have to come. It depends on the calendar,” Castro explained. “I don’t think about whether it’s better or worse timing. It’s now, so it’s now. I don’t think they’re a team without quality. They’ve lost but they remain very strong.”
Squad updates and availability
Castro provided a comprehensive update on his squad’s fitness situation:
- Pampín is unavailable for selection
- Matías Moreno is suffering from fatigue and won’t travel (“99% certain”)
- Kervin Arriaga is also experiencing fatigue, with a decision on his inclusion to be made on matchday
The gaffer attributed some of these fitness issues to recent changes in training methodology, explaining it’s “normal that they’re fatigued” during this adaptation period.
New signing ready for action
In more positive news, new signing Ugo Raghebour is set to be included in the squad after completing his first full training session with the team. Castro revealed Levante had been pursuing the player since summer, but only now managed to secure his services.
“He’s a physically strong player with excellent technical quality. He’s offensive with quality, but defensively very good too,” Castro explained of the former Lille man.
Transfer talk addressed
With the January window in full swing, Castro addressed speculation surrounding potential departures, particularly regarding Kervin Arriaga’s links to Genoa and Etta Eyong’s situation.
The manager maintained a pragmatic stance, acknowledging that “when the market is open, there are always clubs looking at our players” while emphasizing that the club is prepared for all eventualities in terms of both arrivals and departures.
As Levante prepare to face the Spanish capital’s giants, Castro’s approach is clear - focus on your own house rather than worry about your neighbour’s problems. That’s the kind of bread and butter attitude that might just serve them well at the Bernabéu.