Real Madrid's manager Rafa Benítez has gathered his players in the locker room of Valdebebas to congratulate them on their strong display at the New San Mamés. In a post match interview he said he was satisfied and believes that his team is on the right track.
"Congratulations, we are growing as a team", was Spanish newspaper 'Marca' main headline this morning, taken from the words of Benitez after the match, who believes that the quality and character shown against Athletic Bilbao is key to the success of Real Madrid this season.
For the Madrid coach, having a team that is united together is one of the most important aspects and he wanted to thank his squad and hopes that the side keep improving.
It's been well documented that Benítez has been trying to increase the competitiveness between his players, with any place (apart from Ronaldo's) up for grabs. At the moment it would seen that his methods are proving fruitful with a good result against Athletic Bilbao.
However the coach knows that the season is long that it was only one win in the long campaign that Real Madrid will have to endure if they are to win the title.