Source: Daily_Mail
Blackburn's 'Galactico' Michel Salgado claims Real was wonderful but only real men play at Rovers
Michel Salgado believes there is no bigger game in the world than Barcelona v Real Madrid - but the veteran right back insists real men play in England.[LNB]The 35-year-old raised eyebrows by joining Blackburn last year after a decade at the Bernabeu, but he has no regrets about leaving behind La Liga's pass and move style for a bit of Premier League grit.[LNB]'England was the birthplace of football - in Spain we say it is the cradle of the game,' Salgado told FIFA.com. 'The culture of football in England is fantastic: it is a different style to Spain, where we aim for possession of the ball and skillful football. [LNB] Up for it: Michel Salgado loves the physical aspects of the Premier League[LNB]'In England it is pure football, physical football, football for men. I'm living a great new experience where we have to battle for every point that we earn. [LNB]'(At Real Madrid) I was used to winning a game but knowing that was only part of the aim, with a trophy as the final aim. Here, every point is for surviving.'[LNB]After initially seeming to struggle in England, Salgado has started every League game for Blackburn this season and is sure he made the right decision to sign a two-year deal at Ewood Park.[LNB]'I have finally got used to playing in Blackburn,' he said. 'I had to change my style and be intelligent, because I couldn't play like I did at Real Madrid. [LNB] Galactico: Salgado spent a decade alongside the planet's best, including Ronaldo, David Beckham, Roberto Carlos, Raul, Esteban Cambiasso and Luis Figo[LNB]'I think it has been the perfect move. It is not only about me but it is about the family. We are living in a great place in Manchester with a great school for the children. They are learning English, which I think is very important, and for me it is the same. I'm living a new experience. [LNB]'Maybe the worst part is the weather but I am from the north-west of Spain so I am used to the rain! [LNB]'If you are going to complain about the football or the weather then you are better off leaving and staying in Spain. I know that it is not Real Madrid here. [LNB]'People ask me "after 10 years at Real Madrid, why move to Blackburn?" Well, Blackburn is a historical team in England, they have won the Premier League and they are one of just four clubs to have done so. They are a well-organised team and I see it as a great challenge.'[LNB] Idol: Salgado remembers watching Glenn Hoddle in his pomp[LNB]Salgado intends to carry on for as long as his legs allow and is tempted by a move to somewhere like Australia, the US or China before hanging up his boots.[LNB]He also enjoys dipping his toe into media work, admitting: 'I have been working with Glenn Hoddle, Gordon Strachan, Ruud Gullit and Graeme Souness, people that I watched on TV when I was six years old. [LNB]'I remember Glenn Hoddle at the 1982 World Cup, watching him play against Spain, and now I'm sharing a studio with him. It's fantastic for me.' [LNB] Real Madrid stars bricking it as team coach is attacked ahead of Barca clashReal Madrid's Ronaldo hopes to hit his Pique with 200th goal in El ClasicoPete Jenson: Ronaldo savours his net gains but Barca is the ultimate goalBLACKBURN ROVERS FC
