In a recent interview, Roma and Italy legend Francesco Totti has spoken about the admiration he has for Real Madrid and the compliments he has received over the years from its President Florentino Perez.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, Totti also revealed his hopes for his beloved Roma under Jose Mourinho, while also outlining the importance for Italy to qualify for the next major tournaments.
A recurring theme of Totti’s chat with Marca was how the game has changed since he hung up his boots five years ago.
“In general, I always like football, but it is clear now that it’s a different game to the one that I played,” he told the Spanish press. “In our time, there was more group spirit, more fighting. Now we think more about physique. Obviously, the game has changed.
The interviewer suggested Real Madrid with their midfield of Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni as an example. “Yes, but they always have great players, it is normal,” Totti replied.
“If we think about the Real Madrid of my time, that had Beckham, Roberto Carlos, Zidane, those players are on a different level.
Marca also asked Totti about his iconic no. 10 shirt, and whether the number still holds the same meaning on the pitch.
“Before, the number 10 of a team was a more important figure. I wouldn’t say that it has become extinct, but the 10 is now a number that’s just like any other, without as much significance in the team,” he suggested.
Then, asked how he views the current Roma team, Totti replied: “I see it with ups and downs, but always under a great coach in José. I hope he can take the team as high as possible.”
Marca then pressed Totti on a number of topics revolving around Real Madrid, including his favourite players, the Santiago Bernabeu and his relationship with President Perez.
“I have always liked them, since I was little. When I was a child in Rome I watched all of his games. Madrid at that time was the club that inspired me with all its great players. Watching them play was a great inspiration for me.
“It’s the most successful club in the world, the fans, the Santiago Bernabéu, it all fascinated me. With Roma, I spent 25 years playing in different stadia but the Bernabéu was, and is, different for me. It’s a different kind of atmosphere.
“There are so many, starting with Hugo Sánchez to the Hierro era, Roberto Carlos, Salgado etc. I would be here all day naming names, not forgetting Ronaldo ‘El Fenómeno’.
Towards the end of his discussion with the Spanish press, Totti also highlighted the importance of Italy’s return to major tournaments, having missed out on the last two World Cups.
“We hope (to return) soon. There have already been two World Cups where we have not taken part and Italy cannot allow that because it is one of the strongest countries in the world.
“I hope that with the new coach Luciano Spaletti, the best solution can be found as soon as possible.”