Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has revealed that he has no real plans in place to leave the Bernabeu, after reports that the Spanish goalkeeper is unhappy and wants to leave the Spanish giants.
The 32-year-old shot stopper is yet to feature in La Liga this term, with his eight appearances all coming in the Copa Del Rey and UEFA Champions League as Diego Lopez takes charge of league duties.
A lack of regular first team starts for the veteran keeper has alerted several of Europe’s top clubs for a possible transfer, with interest in the Premier League coming from Manchester City and Arsenal respectively.
However, appearing on the Antena 3 network in Spain, the 152-cap international explained it would be a long time before he considers leaving Real Madrid.
“In the future I see myself out of Real Madrid, inside ten years,” he told the El Hormigueroshow.
“At 38 it will be much more difficult for me. Today, I’m one of Los Blancos. I’m delighted to be at Real Madrid. In five or six years, we’ll see.”
Rumours in recent weeks have linked Casillas with a switch to the Premier League, with Arsenal and Manchester City both said to be interested.
“Many people are speculating about my situation,” he added. “It’s not the same as it has been in recent years.
“Every day rumours appear and whilst these stories appear, I belong to Real Madrid, which is the club of my life.
“I want to stay here. Right now, my decision is to stay at Real Madrid. I want to get the tenth [European Cup], more trophies and more league titles.”
The goalkeeper had a public spat with former manager Jose Mourinho, who dropped Casillas in dramatic fashion at the turn of 2013, and it looks like Casillas will have to fight it out with Diego Lopez for the number one shirt.
Casillas, who is in the unusual position of being Spain’s No. 1 goalkeeper yet not at club level, believes the competition provided by Lopez is keeping him on his feet.
“It’s the coaches who decide what’s best,” he said. “I don’t have a problem with that. I compete. I like the challenges.
“Whenever I was in the spotlight, I wanted to show why I was there. Competition is a good thing and I’m not worried. My intention is to train well and enjoy myself.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
