Manager urges his players to draw inspiration from their record in Europe’s biggest competition
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has backed his side to respond to recent disappointment when they host Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.
Madrid head into the Bernabeu clash on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Mallorca, which left them seven points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona and damaged their title hopes.
“I told them there was no time to dwell on what had happened,” Arbeloa said. “All we’re thinking about is winning tomorrow.”
The Spanish side face a strong Bayern team flying under Vincent Kompany and currently leading the Bundesliga by nine points. Arbeloa said his would have to deal with Bayern’s intensity and organisation, describing them as a team capable of hurting opponents in multiple ways.
“They’re aggressive in defence, they’re fearless, they’re brave, they mark their men very closely, they drop back at tremendous speed, with intensity, and with the pace they bring to the game,” said Arbeloa.
“They’re a very well-rounded team with plenty of weapons to cause damage. They’re capable of scoring plenty of goals and have a defence in which everyone gets involved.”
But Madrid’s coach also expressed confidence in Madrid’s record in Europe’s biggest competition.
“Real Madrid have always stood up to top-class opponents,” said Arbeloa. “We’re up against a team that’s the most consistent in Europe and will really test us. Our history against this opponent is special. I’m sure we’re in for a great night, just like against Manchester City.”
