Álvaro Arbeloa emphasized on Monday that Real Madrid’s upcoming Champions League playoff against Benfica “isn’t about revenge,” following the Portuguese team’s unexpected victory last month that knocked Madrid out of the top eight in the UCL standings.
Benfica, managed by former Madrid coach José Mourinho, defeated Real Madrid 4-2 at the Estadio Da Luz on January 28, with goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scoring a dramatic header in the 98th minute.
This result meant Madrid failed to secure automatic qualification for the round of 16, necessitating a two-legged tie against Benfica, with the first leg set for Tuesday in Lisbon.
“Our focus is always on winning. We’re not just aiming to eliminate Benfica,” Arbeloa stated during a press conference when asked about motives for revenge. “Our goal is to win the Champions League. This isn’t about revenge; it’s about advancing in the tie, which is why we’re here.”
The earlier league meeting between the two clubs saw exuberant celebrations at full-time, with Mourinho visibly emotional as Trubin’s last-minute goal secured Benfica’s position in the last playoff spot.
“Benfica hasn’t caught me off guard. I understand how José’s teams operate,” Arbeloa remarked on Monday. “But this match is a fresh start—it has nothing to do with the one from three weeks ago.”
Mourinho and Arbeloa developed a close bond during their time at Madrid from 2010 to 2013.
“We’re good friends,” Arbeloa said. “We both wish the best for each other… I can only say that I always wish José all the best, but my priority is to eliminate Benfica.”
Star striker Kylian Mbappé was an unused substitute in the team’s LaLiga victory over Real Sociedad on Saturday due to discomfort in his left knee, and Arbeloa did not confirm whether he would start on Tuesday.
“Mbappé has joined us for training,” Arbeloa mentioned. “You’ll see tomorrow whether he plays or not.”