Pellegrini: Real Madrid told me that some players had to play no matter what Real Madrid Chilean admitted he was urged to start certain players

The Chilean coach Manuel Pellegrini has opened up on his time as the man in charge of Real Madrid, revealing that some players were obligated to play no matter the circumstances.

Pellegrini, who recently signed with English side West Ham United, admitted his main discussions with the club hierarchy were regarding those who were urged to always start.

"One of the discussions I had most often with the leaders of Real Madrid was on the performance of the players," Pellegrini told Chilean newspaper, El Mercurio.

"They told me that some had to play no matter what, but I never compromised."

Pellegrini, who led Los Blancos in the 2009/10 season also spoke very highly of former players Cristiano Ronaldo and Raul, while revealing the most difficult footballer to work with.

"During my career, the easiest players to lead were Cristiano and Raul, no matter how much they won, they were excellent athletes," he explained.

"The most complicated was Juan Roman Riquelme."

However, he assured that he has always had a good relationship with his players and colleagues.

"I have a very good relationship with all the coaches, including [Jose] Mourinho," added Pellegrini.

"We recently met in London and we greeted each other with a big hug."