Madrid, May 27 (IANS) Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas opened up about his relationship with the team’s former coach Carlo Ancelotti, saying he didn’t always see an eye-to-eye with the Italian.
Following a trophy-less season, Real Madrid sacked Ancelotti on Monday after two years in charge of the team. Captain Casillas lost his place to Diego Lopez after an injury during Jose Mourinho’s final season at the Santiago Bernabeu and failed to win it back under the Italian the following term, though he has been No.1 this campaign.
He revealed on Tuesday night that he was angered by the original snub but wished Ancelotti well for the future.
“It is a demanding club and the president and the board have made the best decision. But I thank Carlo for what he has done for me, even though last year I was angry because he did not play me much. He is a noble person and I wish him well. Madrid will always be his home,” Casillas was quoted as saying by Spanish radio Cadena SER.
Casillas’ own future has been the subject of great speculation following reports that Madrid will move for Manchester United keeper David de Gea this summer. However, the 34-year-old is convinced he will still be at the club next season and has no intention of giving up his shirt without a fight.
“I am sure that I will continue here next season. I can’t imagine I will not be at the club next season. I want to finish my career here. If things were not working I would have to leave, but now I feel good and I am strong. I will face the coming season as if it were my first here, that’s my challenge,” the skipper said.
Casillas was booed by his own supporters in several games towards the end of the season following a number of high-profile mistakes.
