Solari Hails Marcelo

Joshua Walters

Santiago Solari has heaped praises on Brazilian defender Marcelo for his commitment to Real Madrid.

Solari says Marcelo has the progress of Real Madrid at heart and demonstrates it in his performances for the club and at the team's activities every day.

The left-back and deputy captain of Los Blancos has not started a match under Solari since the side's 2-0 loss to Real Sociedad on matchday 18.

This has raised speculations in the media of a rift between the player and the manager with some quarters alleging that the player is considering a move to Juventus to join up with former teammate and friend, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Solari was asked questions about his relationship with the Brazilian utility player and the latest on the player at a press conference on Wednesday but refused to give answers.

“His love for the club and his commitment to the club and his joy at training are undoubted, and his behaviour is impeccable. All these things must be praised.”

“It always a difficult task to pick the team.”

“What happens in private stays in private.”

“But competition within the squad is an essential part of football. Everyone must feel they have an opportunity and can lose their place [if they don't do well].”