Real Madrid Fitness not the issue claims Frenchman

What is happening, Zidane?

Zidane: Real Madrid are having a difficult time

Real Madrid have struggled for form in recent weeks, though Zinedine Zidane has emphasised that it is the mental side of the game that needs improvement and not just fitness.

Los Blancos have been held to four straight draws, and while calls of it being a crisis are overblown, the French boss is looking for answers.

"I believe the issue is psychological and not physical," the coach said. "At the moment, we are finding it difficult going into games.

"Whether we win or we lose, I have an exceptional group of players."

A criticism of Zidane's methods this season is the constant rotation to his starting XI, though he believes they are necessary during a long season.

"I have spoken to the players about the rotations," the Frenchman clarified.

"They are necessary, because if you haven't played enough, you can't be ready for when the team needs you."

Meanwhile, the former Juventus midfielder has also had to deal with the high-profile substitution of Cristiano Ronaldo during the recent 2-2 draw at Las Palmas.

The three-time Ballon d'Or winner made his feelings clear as he was replaced by Lucas Vasquez, however Zidane insists he understands his star player's frustration at coming off - and even encourages it.

"It is completely normal that Cristiano [Ronaldo] gets angry when he is subbed off - this is good," he insisted.

"Ronaldo always wants to play and help the team.

" I don't think anybody can play 60 games in a single season."