Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has expressed confidence ahead of his side’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie against SL Benfica, insisting that former manager José Mourinho holds no tactical surprises for him.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the first leg at the Estádio da Luz, Arbeloa, who previously played under Mourinho at Real Madrid, said, “I don’t think José can surprise me because I know perfectly what he is capable of.”
The coach also emphasised that Real Madrid is fully prepared for a demanding encounter, regardless of the lineup Benfica might field.
“It doesn’t matter if Benfica showed up with the Youth League team; I knew the intensity Real Madrid would bring to the pitch. Obviously, tomorrow will be more of the same. I know they can even play better, and we have to be prepared for that,” Arbeloa added.
He concluded by underlining that his side is ready to match Benfica’s challenge, signalling confidence ahead of what promises to be a competitive clash.
