Real Madrid MARCA interview Los Blancos legend in Miami

With an El Clasico just around the corner and starting a new stage in the club of his life - this time off the pitch - Raul is optimistic about the new season, particularly if Real Madrid sign Kylian Mbappe, who's purchase price will be set by what else happens in this summer's transfer market.

The former striker is convinced that the current project is going to be the best in the history of the club and now, finally, he is part of it.

He still had time to demonstrate his social commitment to the Laureus Foundation, from where he spoke with MARCA in the heart of the Cuban neighbourhood of Miami.

Madrid reach El Clasico after a hard defeat to Manchester City. It's still early, but what feelings do you have about this season?

"At the moment the team have been training for ten days, so it's still very soon. It is clear that you never like to lose but City came more prepared and had already played more games. They were superior. But the important thing was that the players already started to have minutes, especially the U21 guys."

The Super Cup with Mourinho, who knows you so well...what type of match do you expect?

"We all know Mourinho and Manchester United also have great players. These are the first weeks of a season when we all have high expectations. That match will be complicated because the pace of competition will be different than usual, but it's going to be a great show. "

Mbappe is one of the names on the market. Is he worth 180 million?

"The market will set the price. There has to be an agreement between several parties and that will define it. Real Madrid have great players but it is clear that until August 31, anything can happen. For now you have to focus on those who are here and we'll see what happens."

Someone that will certainly be around is Zidane ...

"He is a great coach, with great values. Winning two Champions Leagues ... he is certainly demonstrating his ability. He's not very experienced but there are some who do not need it to prove what they are worth. The players are happy with him, he has managed to handle a great team, giving minutes to everyone and making them feel important. A historic double has been achieved, something that only the top coaches manage."

This summer has seen the arrival of Ceballos, the return of Llorente, Vallejo ... do you like the new policy of the club to bet on younger Spanish players?

"Madrid must have the best and these footballers are from a generation that almost won the European U21 Championship recently. They have excelled in their clubs and have a great future projection. I think it's a very good policy. Let's try to make Vallejo fit in quickly because I think he can do a great job."

Another summer of doubts with Cristiano ...

"He is a very important footballer, the top scorer in our history. His performance has been incredible. He is a symbol of the club, has had many seasons here and has been very important in Real winning titles. He is loved by the fans and the club is looking after him. Right now he needs to rest because he had a long season."

With the departure of Morata, should Madrid sign another striker?

"Morata was a very important player for the club and for the team. He scored a lot of goals but now he's at Chelsea. We'll see what there may be on the market, but I think we already have world-class strikers who can score goals."