The starting left-back for Real in the first two days was Aihen Muñoz (Etxauri, 1997). The goal of the youth squad is not to be an emergency decision. A year and a half after making his debut in the first team, the Navarrese promises to leave his skin to make a dent in the coach's usual plans.
Are you happy with the start of the season?
It's true that we would have liked to start winning, but against Madrid we played a very serious game. We got a good draw and Valladolid was looking forward to it because it was the first game at home. Let's see if we can make the two points good by beating Elche tomorrow.
A reliable Royal has been seen on defense. What do you think?
Yes, we are working a lot on the back. It is where we want to take a step forward because we know that in attack we have a lot of quality.
Are you working more on the defensive side in training?
Nerd. We are training as always. The players are psyched to take a step forward in both facets. If we succeed, we can once again be competing with those above.
Do you think that back is where there is more room for improvement?
I think last year we were pretty good on defense, especially before the quarantine. Very intense and taking all the sites. The goal now is to go back to that version.
He has played both games as a starter. How have you seen yourself on a personal level?
I have been comfortable in the field. It is also true that in the game against Valladolid they went to the wing in the goal. Then, against Real Madrid, I felt comfortable both in defense and in getting the ball out. I think I came out strengthened from being a starter in a tough game like the one we played against Madrid.
He has shared the left wing with Barrenetxea in this start of the Championship.
We went up to the first team at the same time and we have always had that connection. With Oyarzabal I have also had to play many times and he is another piece of footballer. I feel very comfortable with anyone, in this team there is a lot of quality. Each one has its virtues and I adapt to the profiles of each one.
What does Imanol ask of you?
Above all that is brave, daring, intense defensively. And in attack, that he has the wisdom of being able to get something in each play. He is very close, Imanol tells us things clearly and we appreciate it.
He is the coach who made him debut in the first team.
That's. He trusts me, I trust him, and we know how to work together. It's a compliment that he gave me the opportunity, but that now has nothing to do with it. Is past. In the Sanse I was also with him.
A year and a half have passed since his debut at the Bernabéu.
Seems like yesterday. Everything is happening very fast. As in life, I have gone through good and bad experiences and you learn from everything.
Is he a better winger than then?
Yes Yes Yes. I have learned a lot during this time. And I want to continue learning.
Are there any significant changes in your playing since you turned pro?
I don't know … I've always been very intense, with the aim of trying to get out with the ball well played … And wanting to learn every day.
Today's football demands complete full-backs, who not only defend, but are also decisive in attack. How do you see it?
Well, in the end, a winger who contributes in attack is very valuable for a team. That he gets to the baseline, that he crosses, that he is available every time his team has the ball is important.
Are you confident that you will continue to be the starter from tomorrow?
I am not the one who has to decide, but I am available and ready. Of course I trust myself, what I have to do is give reasons to the coach to put me on.
With Monreal recovered, the competition for the position grows again.
In this team there are many good people and there is competition in all positions. I think the competition is good. Some of us improve others. It is positive so that we do not relax.
In your particular case, do you learn faster with an international in the same area or is it a relative condition?
Having a player like Monreal in the same position is a joy for me. We all want to play, we compete for a position, but Nacho is always ready to help and for us to learn from him.
Do you think the fact that there are so many games this season can help you?
Yes, on top of that we started later … So we have to be prepared. We have the Cup final, a European competition, without forgetting that what feeds us is the League. And we want to be at the top again.
Is it an extra motivation for you to debut in Europe with Real?
Yes, it is always nice to play a European competition.
It has a contract until 2022. Has there been any contact to extend it?
No, nothing. I am focused on the day to day and if it has to come, it will come.
Would you be motivated by a renewal offer?
Man! You know what it means to me to play for Real. I will always be willing to continue in this club.
This summer has interest come to you from another team?
Nothing nothing. I have been calm, ready to start a new season.
The club has decided to relinquish Kevin, betting on his continuity. How do you take it?
Well, I notice that the club trusts me. I try to return that confidence in the field. I like to show it every day, not only in games, but also in training. Everything that is out of my control, I do not decide, since it does not depend on me