There is no doubting the success that Real Madrid have enjoyed since Zinedine Zidane was installed as manager over a year ago, and former teammate Ciro Ferrara has revealed the secret to the Frenchman's success at the Bernabeu.
Ferrara, who played together with Zizou at Juventus, was reported byGoal.comas saying, "My friend Zidane has already Italianised [Real Madrid] by finding the right balance for the defence.
Zidane has Italianised Madrid “ Ferrara https://t.co/B4h0nsm1h1
Speaking ahead of Los Blancos'Champions League last 16 clash with Napoli, whom Ferrera played for between 1984 and 1994, the former Italian international commented, "At the Bernabeu Madrid will play their game, no doubt, but if they leave too many gaps in Naples then it will be fun.
"I am convinced that Zizou will be even more Italian in this challenge.I believe two men will be critical to Napoli. [Jose] Callejon and [Raul] Albiol.Both, having played for Real, can make it clear to their team-mates what they need to do to overcome tensions and fears of a big game."
The Italian side will arrive in the Spanish capital this week with the game taking place on Wednesday. Zidane, who led Real to a record 11th Champions League crown last season, will be again aiming to end the campaignas European champions.