Real Madrid interim head coach Álvaro Arbeloa has charged his players to be at their best as they host Bundesliga side FC Bayern Munich on Tuesday in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, news.ng reports.
In a pre-match press conference on Monday, Arbeloa said it is important for his players to live up to expectations against rivals Bayern Munich and display what it takes to be a Real Madrid player.
“I want to see a Real Madrid that has always stepped up against great rivals, like the one we will face tomorrow,” he said.
He reminisced about how Los Blancos have performed incredibly well in matches across all competitions this season.
While acknowledging the threat Bayern possess on the field of play, he reminded fans of both clubs that Madrid has a formidable history against the German side.
“A Bayern Munich team that is having an exceptional season on all levels of play. In terms of results, it is likely to be the most consistent team in Europe so far this season.
“We know the challenge they will pose on the field and the history we have with Bayern Munich, which is always special for us,” he added.
As they face a would-be star-studded Bayern side managed by Vincent Kompany, Arbeloa expressed confidence that the Santiago Bernabéu will not disappoint.
“The Bernabéu will experience another great Champions League night, like the one we had against Manchester City. I’m sure it will be repeated tomorrow,” he concluded.
In their last five meetings, Real Madrid lead with two wins, while Bayern Munich have one win and two draws.
