Dumfries shares his thoughts after first day at Real Madrid: ‘Very proud and happy to be here’

Dumfries shares his thoughts after first day at Real Madrid: ‘Very proud and happy to be here’ Real Madrid new signing Denzel Dumfries joined the first-team squad for pre-season on Tuesday , becoming the first summer arrival to train under Jose Mourinho. The Dutch right-back completed his first full day of work at Real Madrid City, where he was introduced to the Portuguese coach’s methods. Having already visited Valdebebas on Monday to meet his new teammates and hold an initial conversation with Mourinho, he officially began life as a Real Madrid player today. Medical before training The day began with the routine medical examination, which Dumfries completed without any issues. After leaving the medical facilities, the Dutch international spent time greeting supporters waiting outside Valdebebas, signing autographs and posing for photographs before heading to his first training session. Dumfries joined from Inter Milan. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website) Once on the pitch, Dumfries took part in a mixed programme of gym work and ball drills alongside his new teammates. ‘An honour to be here’ Following training, Dumfries spoke to Real Madrid TV and expressed his delight after his first day with the club. “After the first training session, I feel great. After the holidays, I’m happy to get started. It’s an honour to be here,” the new signing said. “The facilities are incredible. Very large. You can get lost very quickly. They are helping me to know where everything is,” he added. “I’m very proud to be here, to be part of this club. The start has gone very well.” He also praised the welcome he has received since arriving in Madrid, saying: “My teammates have welcomed me very well. “Several are still on vacation for the World Cup, but those who are here have received me very warmly: the coaching staff, the manager… “I’ve felt very welcome. We have a great team and a great manager. It’s great to work with them and learn from them.” Ready for the new challenge. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website) The defender added that one of his first objectives away from the pitch is to learn Spanish as quickly as possible. Ready for the new challenge Dumfries joins Real Madrid after several strong seasons with Inter Milan, although his most recent campaign was disrupted by a number of fitness issues. But there is confidence within the club that he can leave those behind and make a major impact. With the new season only a few weeks away, the right-back outlined the mindset he intends to bring to pre-season, saying: “In pre-season you build the foundations for the season. New players will arrive during pre-season, it’s important for everyone to get to know each other and work hard. Those are the most important things.” Dumfries also had a message for the Real Madrid supporters, as he said: “Delighted to meet you all. I’m very proud and happy to be here. We’re going to fight for our goals. It’s an honour to play for Real Madrid and we’re going to make you proud.” Having completed his first training session at Valdebebas, Dumfries is expected to make his unofficial debut in one of Real Madrid’s upcoming pre-season friendlies as he continues to adapt ahead of the start of the new campaign.