In a recent interaction, former La Liga goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has offered his two cents on all things Real Madrid, including the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona.
Canizares also offered his thoughts on the Ballon d’Or ceremony, which is going to be held next week.
Canizares on Courtois
Canizares was an international goalkeeper during his time, who played for Real Madrid’s first team between 1994 to 1998. He made 55 competitive matches for Los Blancos during his time at the Bernabeu.
Speaking of goalkeepers, though, Canizares heaped praise on Thibaut Courtois while also lauding his coach Luis Llopis.
“Courtois is the best goalkeeper I have ever seen. He is very good, he has a lot of talent and he has grown a lot in recent years under Luis Llopis. He has gone from being a great goalkeeper to the best in the world,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).
“Lunin, from the doubts he generated, has made him one of the best in the Champions League. His work must be valued. Courtois is capable of handling one-on-one situations and blocking the goal,” he said.
Canizares on Ballon d’Or
Although Vinicius Jr. is emerging as the clear favourite, Canizares has backed two other stars to win the coveted trophy.
Indeed, Canizares believes the Ballon d’Or title should go to Spaniards such as Dani Carvajal or Rodri, though he acknowledged that Vinicius is the clear favourite.
“The fact that Vinicius is on the list and there are two Spanish candidates who split the vote makes it difficult. Carvajal and Rodri deserve it for the titles they have won and because they are in the most successful teams,” he said.
“They have not had a Ballon d’Or. They are neither that media-friendly nor do they have the affection of the voters, that is why the bet is on Vinicius,” he added.
Canizares on El Clasico
Finally, Canizares offered his thoughts on the upcoming Clasico, backing Real Madrid to secure a victory owing to their home advantage.
“After this week it’s clear that both teams are in good form. Real Madrid are winning but they’re not playing well and they’re winning games, and Barcelona have a new energy thanks to their coach,” he said.
Canizares added that a win for Barcelona cannot be guaranteed despite their solid form and a recent 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich.
“They’re playing better but that doesn’t guarantee a favourable result. If we’re talking about favourites, we’re going for the one that’s playing at home,” he concluded.