Real Madrid's manager, Álvaro Arbeloa, stated that his team never feels inferior to any rival and will approach the Champions League match against Manchester City as the favorite. "Real Madrid never feels less than anyone. We always think about winning," Arbeloa said at a press conference. The coach acknowledged the difficulty of the opponent, recalling that Manchester City was the European champion two years ago and that every encounter between the teams has been complicated. Arbeloa also commented on the tactical duel with Pep Guardiola. "He always has a surprise prepared," the coach noted. Separately, Arbeloa expressed hope for Kylian Mbappé's speedy recovery, who will miss the match due to a knee injury. "He is much better, and we hope to see him back very soon," the manager added. Finally, Arbeloa clarified his recent comments about some players, explaining that his remarks were meant to highlight the effort of those who traveled to Vigo. "When I said I was happy with those who wanted to come, it was to emphasize the effort of those who played even at less than 100 percent," he explained. He stressed that the team, with many individual talents, functions very well collectively. Arbeloa also praised the contribution of young academy players who have stepped up in the absence of key figures. "In Vigo, they showed they have nerves of steel," the coach said. He highlighted Vinícius Junior as a key figure in the attack, despite injuries to other leaders. "As long as Vinícius is on the pitch, he will be very important. It doesn't matter the circumstances or the opponent we face," Arbeloa concluded.
