Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa has insisted that there will be no element of surprise when his side lock horns with Benfica in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 play-off first leg tonight, February 17.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the encounter at the Estádio da Luz, Arbeloa made it clear that he knows exactly what to expect from Jose Mourinho, now in charge of the Portuguese giants.
“I don’t think José [Mourinho] can surprise me because I know perfectly what he is capable of,” Arbeloa said.
The build-up to the tie has centred on the tactical battle between two men who understand elite European football inside out. Mourinho’s reputation for meticulous planning and big-match pragmatism precedes him, yet Arbeloa appeared calm and confident as he assessed the challenge.
“It doesn’t matter if Benfica showed up with the Youth League team; I knew the intensity Real Madrid would bring to the pitch,” he added.
Real Madrid, record winners of the Champions League, are accustomed to high-stakes European nights, and the Spanish coach believes his players understand what is required.
“Obviously, tomorrow will be more of the same. I know they can even play better, and we have to be prepared for that,” he said.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have confirmed their 24-man squad for the trip to Portugal, highlighting the strength at Arbeloa’s disposal as they seek to secure a favourable result ahead of the return leg in Madrid.
In goal, Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin and Fran González were all included. The defensive options feature Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, Huijsen, Joan Martínez, Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Trent, Á. Carreras and Fran García.
Midfield responsibilities will rest on the shoulders of Arda Güler, Dani Ceballos, Cestero, Thiago, Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouameni. In attack, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappé, Gonzalo, Brahim and Mastantuono complete a squad brimming with depth and variety.
The winner of the two-legged tie will advance to the Champions League Round of 16 proper.
