Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has defiantly rejected the notion that his team are underdogs as they prepare to host Manchester City in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night. The Spanish giants are grappling with a significant injury crisis and a period of inconsistent form heading into this crucial European encounter.
Arbeloa's Defiant Stance on Underdog Status
Despite acknowledging the challenge ahead, Arbeloa expressed unwavering confidence in his squad's ability to compete at the highest level. "It is going to be a tough game against a great team, with great players and an amazing coach," he stated. "We are well aware that we need to win the game. That is our mentality. The Champions League is key for all of us." He added emphatically: "We are not underdogs. That is what we think. We are Real Madrid. The situation doesn’t matter. We don’t need to feel inferior to any team."
Injury Crisis and Squad Depletion
The Real Madrid squad is severely depleted for this high-stakes match. Key absentees include:
- Top scorer Kylian Mbappe, who is sidelined with a knee injury.
- Forward Rodrygo and England midfielder Jude Bellingham.
- Dani Ceballos, Alvaro Carreras, David Alaba, and Eder Militao.
On a positive note, Eduardo Camavinga has recovered from a virus and is available for selection. Real Madrid's recent domestic performances have been shaky, with two consecutive defeats in LaLiga preceding a narrow victory against Celta Vigo, secured by a late Federico Valverde goal. They currently trail leaders Barcelona by four points, underscoring the urgency for key players to return to fitness.
Mbappe Injury Update and Vinicius Junior's Role
Arbeloa provided an optimistic update on Kylian Mbappe's recovery, expressing hope that the forward will be fit for the second leg at the Etihad Stadium next week. "He is recovering quite well. We have to see day after day about his recovery, but he is back with great spirit and we hope to get him back as soon as possible," Arbeloa stated.
With so many key players missing, the onus falls heavily on Vinicius Junior to lead the attack. "If Vini is on the pitch, he is going to be key for us. It is clear we have key absences to top-level players," Arbeloa said. "With Vini having so much responsibility, it is normal he is our leader in attack. We need the best of him to beat Manchester City."
Historic Rivalry and Recent Encounters
The two European heavyweights have become familiar adversaries, clashing 15 times since 2012, including in six of the last seven seasons. Their most recent encounter saw Pep Guardiola's Manchester City secure a 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu in the league phase last December. That match was played under former Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso, who was sacked in January and replaced by Arbeloa.
Motivation and Significance of the Fixture
Former Liverpool defender Arbeloa underlined the significance of this Champions League fixture. "There is much motivation for us and the players, even if we have played a lot of games between the two clubs," he remarked. "It will be a special night with our fans. For me as a head coach, it is really important to face one of the best coaches in football." As Real Madrid prepare to face Manchester City, Arbeloa's defiant message sets the tone for a match that promises high drama and intense competition, despite the challenges posed by injuries and form.
