Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has told reporters in Spain that the club’s main aim this season is to gain 40 points and avoid relegation.
With tongue firmly in cheek, the 48-year-old tactician surprised many reporters with his response ahead of his side’s trip to Levante, with many believing it to be a swipe at rival Pep Guardiola’s claim that it wouldn’t be a surprise if Barcelona failed to win any silverware this season.
“We will fight to stay in the first division and to take 40 points. Until we take 40 or more points our main objection is to avoid relegation. By achieving this quickly, we will look sooner for other objectives. We must continue to take points,” Mourinho told reporters.
However, the former Inter coach was quick to return to business and assured fans that they will take the game very seriously as they hope to continue their 100 per cent record.
“If we keep playing this way we’ll have a chance of winning tomorrow against a difficult opponent. We failed to win at their stadium last year. It will be difficult because they defend fiercely and well. Levante are a good side that’s competitive and aggressive.We will have to play very well in order to win,” he added.
Madrid will be hoping that star man, Cristiano Ronaldo will be fit in time for Sunday’s encounter after picking up an injury in Wednesday’s 1-0 win at Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.
“We’ll see just how fit Ronaldo is after training. Calling him up will mean he can play. If he can’t, he won’t make the cut, we won’t try to fool anybody,” Mourinho said.
Madrid take on Levante on Sunday evening, with Mourinho’s men looking to improve on last season’s 0-0 draw at the Estadi Ciutat de Valencia.
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