Zidane insists he has "nothing against" Athletic goalkeeper Kepa
The Madrid coach spoke about the stopper's new contract
Los Blancos had been close to signing the Spain international
As was expected, Zinedine Zidane had to respond to questions about Real Madrid's failure to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga on Tuesday.
The Madrid coach was annoyed at those that suggested there was a disagreement with president Florentino Perez over the move for the Athletic Club goalkeeper.
Kepa's contract was due to expire in the summer and he looked set to move to Madrid before signing a new deal to remain in Bilbao until 2025 on Monday.
"The important thing for me is to protect my squad, the players here are those who concern me," Zidane said. "But I have nothing against Kepa or any other player. I never have or have had anything against anyone.
"My idea, and that of the club, too, was to not change many things here [this month]. I get annoyed when I hear some comments saying I have won [an internal battle]. What I am mainly interested in is my players, not so much the rest."
Perez was keen to bring Kepa in this month for a reduced price, due to his contract expiring, but Zidane was not keen on adding another goalkeeper to the squad.
Madrid currently have Keylor Navas as No.1 with Kiko Casilla providing back-up. Their third choice goalkeeper is one of Zidane's sons, Luca.
