Zinedine Zidane says Pepe has earned right to make own call over Real Madrid deal
Saturday 4 February 2017 14:20, UK
Zinedine Zidane says he will not put any pressure on Pepe over signing a new Real Madrid contract because of his status at the club.
Pepe is out of contract at the end of the season and is reported to be stalling on talks over a new deal amid interest from Chinese Super League side Hebei China Fortune.
The 33-year-old has been out for the last six weeks because of injury but Zidane is set to have him back in his squad for Sunday's La Liga clash with Celta Vigo.
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And Zidane says Pepe will be allowed to concentrate on performances rather than contractual matters as he has earned the right to decide on his own future without being pressed by the coaching staff.
Pepe is Real's third longest-serving player behind Sergio Ramos and Marcelo.
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"Of course, I want him to stay, he can stay at the club for as long as he wants. He's been a huge player to this squad, we'll see what happens in June but obviously I want him to stay," Zidane said.
"He's back and he's better, he's been injured a lot this season but now he's recovered and happy.
"Pepe is only thinking about what he can do at Real Madrid now. We'll see what happens in June but given what he has done for us over the years, we have to respect whatever he decides."