Zidane content after debut win as Real Madrid coach

New Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has had a positive impact on the squad, according to captain Sergio Ramos.

Madrid moved to within two points of La Liga leaders Barcelona on Zidane’s bow in senior management at the Santiago Bernabeu as Bale registered his second hat-trick in four games in between Karim Benzema’s double.

Gareth Bale then turns in a hat trick by finding the back of the net in the 23rd, 49th, and 63rd minutes – the last giving him 51 in 108 games with Real Madrid.

The change in the dynamic with Zidane at the helm was palpable on Saturday, with the players looking more determined and committed and working hard for each other in attack and defence.

The Spanish press were effusive in their praise of Zidane while L’Equipe simply stated “It Promises”.

Spanish and European champions Barcelona, who have a game in hand, are a point ahead of Atletico after they thrashed Granada 4-0 at the Nou Camp on Saturday. “The only thing I want is that he feels happy, at ease”. Bale, however, played down any idea of a revolution at the club with Benitez gone and Zidane in charge. What I liked most was the attitude.

“It was quite a long day but I’m happy”. And the good results can be expected to continue next weekend when they face La Liga strugglers, Sporting Gijon, who have slipped into the bottom three after a poor run of results.

“Bale is a match-winner, he scores goals and can make goals”.

“We had a chat when he first came in”.

Rafael Benitez, who was sacked on Monday, exited without the support of his players or the fans and was replaced by the universally respected Zidane, whose team responded with an inspired effort and aggressive play more in keeping with Real Madrid’s DNA. The players seemed liberated.

“I am very happy”.

“Of course we are going to continue like that”. “We’ve only trained a few times but we are professionals and we work hard to try to win games and all of the titles available”.

“The important thing is to play football and my job will be based on playing from the back, progressing in to the opposition half quickly and having possession of the ball”.