The Costa Rica international remains behind Iker Casillas in the pecking order despite the club captain’s poor form of late
Keylor Navas says he will not give up on his quest to dislodge Iker Casillas as Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The Costa Rica international joined the European champions following after starring for his country at last year’s World Cup, but has made just two Liga appearances for the club this season – despite the indifferent form of Casillas.
And the 28-year-old Navas admits it’s been difficult to adjust to playing second fiddle to the Blancos captain, but says he will continue the fight to prove his worth to coach Carlo Ancelotti.
“I want to be here, where I’m going to fighting to be [no.1] for many years,” he told AS.
“Though it is true that my situation has been tough, I don’t regret anything. I’m going to keep working like I always have.
“I like a challenge. I’m under contract. I have another five years after this one and I’m going to be as professional as possible.
“When I get the chance to play and I’ll take maximum advantage.”
Casillas drew boos from the fans this past week as Madrid suffered a Champions League scare at theSantiago Bernabeu, going down to 4-3 at home to Schalke but prevailing 5-4 on aggregate.
The 33-year-old Spain international also endured a testing World Cup campaign, notably drawing criticism for his role in la Roja’s 5-1 demolition at the hands of the Netherlands.
Ancelotti pledged his support to Casillas this week by insisting he will start the Clasico against Barcelona next weekend.