Real Madrid are keen to put a disappointing 2018/19 season behind them and pre-season will be important for the club and, in particular, for the new signings. This is the view of Zinedine Zidane, who is glad that Los Blancos have completed so much of their business early.
"We are going to have all types of players, from the new signings to the players that are already on the team to the young players who can support and add a lot to a team in pre-season," the Frenchman said in an interview with Charlie Stillitano, the executive chairman of the International Champions Cup competition.
"[To have our signings available for the entire pre-season] is our plan and what we want. "That is why we already bought players, so that they are ready with us and prepared. "As you know, the pre-season for a player is very important. "The important thing is that they are with us from day one.
"They will have played games with their national teams, but will have around one month of vacation and they will be with us."
For Zidane, this is an exciting time of year:  "It is a new season and an important season," he said. "We are back with the excitement of being able to win again."
During the International Champions Cup, Real Madrid will take on Bayern Munich (July 21), Arsenal (July 24) and Atletico Madrid (July 27).
Zidane discussed the match against Atleti and his respect for Diego Simeone.
"It is a very nice game for all the fans, especially in New York," Zidane said.
"For the clubs, it is important because we want to give the fans a good image of Madrid. "We are going to try to have a great game and show how good the two teams are.
"I have a lot of respect for Simeone as I do for all managers. "He has been training for a long time and works very well with his coaching staff.
"He has a good team and is part of a big club. "He does a great job and I respect him a lot."

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