Lopetegui Not Thinking Of Revenge Ahead Of Madrid Clash
Sevilla manager Julen Lopetegui says he will not have revenge at the back of his mind when former side Real Madrid come visiting in the La Liga on Sunday.
Lopetegui agreed terms as Real Madrid manager on the eve of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, which led to his dismissal as Spain boss, but he lasted less than five months at the Santiago Bernabeu before he was shown the exit.
Real Madrid have continued to struggle since then as Lopetegui’s successor, Santiago Solari, was also sacked in March to pave way for Zinedine Zidane’s return.
Lopetegui has led Sevilla to an impressive start to the season, winning three and drawing one of their four league games to lead the standings ahead of Real Madrid’s visit.
The 53-year-old will be looking to get the better of his former employers in Sunday’s clash, but he says revenge will not be the sole motivation for victory.
"There is no room for extra motivation when you coach Sevilla, something I can hopefully do for many years," he said.
"There are three points at stake and that is enough motivation, even if we know the impact of facing Real Madrid.
"I always have a very good memory of all the clubs where I have been, as I stay with the positive.
"I try to be responsible and ambitious, and [Sunday] will be no exception. The central characters are the players, not the coaches."
