Real Madrid still a work in progress, says Sacchi
Real Madrid director of football Arrigo Sacchi says the Primera Liga club still has a way to go before it can be considered the best side in Europe again.
Real Madrid director of football Arrigo Sacchi says the Primera Liga club still has a way to go before it can be considered the best side in Europe again.
"The strongest clubs in Europe at the moment are Juventus and Chelsea. You may or may not like their football but they have a clearly defined approach to the game," Sacchi told sports daily Marca on Thursday.
"We are at a crucial moment, just coming out of a grey patch. We haven't established our shape yet, and are still adapting to changes in the squad."
The nine-times European champions have not won a major trophy in two seasons, and are on their fourth coach over the same period, as they look to return to winning ways.
The club invested heavily in the transfer market during the close season, spending close to 90 million euros on new recruits such as Brazilian forwards Robinho and Julio Baptista, and young Spain defender Sergio Ramos.
"The potential of the side is enormous and the individual talents of the players are undoubted, but they don't always perform as a team," Sacchi continued.
"Vanderlei Luxemburgo is working hard to improve this, and the spirit within the squad. Raul or Michel Salgado said the other day Madrid's biggest rival is itself."
After a shaky start to their league and Champions League campaigns normal order appears to be returning.
Three consecutive league wins have taken them to third in the table, two points behind leaders Getafe, and a 2-1 home win over Olympiakos has stabilised their European campaign after they lost their opening game 3-0 to Olympique Lyon.
"We have to be realistic with our objectives for the season but I have complete faith in the squad and we could yet spring a surprise," said Sacchi.
One of the key players in Real's return to form has been England midfielder David Beckham.
The 30-year-old, restored to the right flank in recent games, has been in outstanding form with his set-pieces, passing and trademark crosses.
"The more he plays the better he gets," Sacchi said of Beckham.
"I don't see him as a specialist. There may be players who are better than him technically, but he performs to such a high standard in his all round game, and there is not much more you can ask of a player."