Many of the headlines at Real Madrid in recent weeks have regarded matters off the pitch rather than on it, and that was again the case in Zinedine Zidane's latest press conference.
Speaking ahead of the match against Real Sociedad, Zidane was questioned about statements from Gareth Bale's agent about his future.
"No, I don't want to answer, I'm the coach of Real Madrid and he does his job," the Frenchman insisted.
"I have to think about the game, playing well, that's what worries me."
Journalists continued to press the coach on a conversation reported to have taken place between Zidane and Bale this week regarding his future.
"I won't tell you anything about it, private conversations are private," he said defiantly.
"It's what I have to do with all of the players, but it stays internal.
"Did I talk to him? Maybe no or maybe yes; with the players I talk about other things, not just the future."
Bale's departure would surely lead to more money in the transfer kitty in the summer, and Zidane couldn't hide his hopes for the months ahead.
"Is it exciting? Yes, and for me more than anyone, I have to tell people as the coach that we will always think about doing things well," he explained.
"We've won a lot and that will continue. The history of this club will always keep growing.
"As a coach I say that next year we will have hope to win many things, we will give our all in our work, win because of that work; you have to work a lot and well.
"We will do all we can because the fans are proud of their team."