"We don't underestimate Chelsea"

David Alaba, Real Madrid's Austrian defender, acknowledged that his team "are the favourites" in the Champions League quarter-final tie, and said they face the fight for the semi-finals with "a lot of confidence", but with the utmost respect for Chelsea.

"We don't underestimate Chelsea, they have a great squad, they are a great team and we have to be very focused, press them from the first minute, because they have great players. They are a strong team and the changes they have made can affect the tie. We know that and we have to be very focused," he told the press conference.

"Most of the time in the Champions League, Real Madrid are the favourites, but we don't think about that. The objective is to reach the semi-finals and for that we have to do well and win tomorrow," he added.

"I think it depends on a lot of details. A game like this is very special. We are focused and confident. Hopefully we can achieve our goal and win. They still have a great squad. The key will be to believe in ourselves," added the player.

Looking back, the defender acknowledged that he still has the chair of that famous celebration: "This year we have the return leg away, but it doesn't change much. We know what we can do in two games and we're very confident. The celebration was special and I have the chair at home".

David Alaba was also asked about the continuity of Carlo Ancelotti: "Of course, he is a great coach. He has shown many times what a coach he is. He has a lot of experience and has been very successful. We are very happy to have him and we would like him to continue next year".

 

April 11, 2023