Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa emphasizes that his team is “not underdogs” ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash with Manchester City this week.
The two teams will meet for the second time this season at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu for the first leg of the round of 16 on Wednesday.
City previously defeated Madrid 2-1 during their league encounter in December.
Real Madrid is facing several injury challenges, with key players Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham unavailable for the match. Dani Ceballos, Alvaro Carreras, David Alaba, and Eder Militao are also sidelined.
Despite these setbacks, Arbeloa stated on Tuesday that his team should not “feel inferior” to anyone.
“It is going to be a tough game against a great team with fantastic players and an outstanding coach,” the former Liverpool player remarked at his pre-match press conference.
“We know we need to win the game. That is our mentality. The Champions League is essential for us.
“We are not underdogs. That is how we see it. We are Real Madrid.
“The situation doesn’t matter. We don’t need to feel inferior to any team.”
Arbeloa also highlighted: “There is a lot of motivation for us and the players, even with our history against each other.
“It will be a special night with our supporters. For me as a head coach, facing one of the best coaches in football is very important.”
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