Real Madrid defender Marcelo has branded Rafael Benitez "a great coach" and is confident that the Spaniard will lead Los Blancos to glory.

Benitez's first official game in charge of the Spanish club brought a 0-0 La Liga draw away to Sporting Gijon at the weekend.

However, Marcelo has insisted that the team will improve as the season develops.

"We didn't play our best game but we're taking the positives to get better. It was only the first game and we have a lot of time ahead of us," Marcelo told AS.

"The squad feels good. [Benitez] is a great coach and he's competitive. He talks to us a lot and shows us where we can all improve. He's on top of it to make us better.

"I'm always trying to improve. I'm at the biggest club in the world and that means I always give a lot for the supporters."

Real Madrid return to league action at home to Real Betis this weekend.

Written by
Matt Law