Courtois, Alexander-Arnold react after Real Madrid 3-0 Man City – ‘Many expected us to get thrashed’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid \delivered one of their strongest performances of the season as they defeated Manchester City 3-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16.

After the match, the Belgian goalkeeper spoke to the media to reflect on the victory and also looked ahead to the difficult challenge waiting for the team at the Etihad Stadium.

Courtois made it clear that despite the strong result, the job is not finished yet.

“We played a great game, but the return leg is going to be difficult. We have to play with confidence, they will come out very strong,” said the Belgian goalkeeper. 

“The Bernabeu has been incredible. After the Celta game, I asked them to be like this and they have gone even further. 

“I’m very happy to have been able to return the favour with a great game, I hope for the same on Saturday,” he said.

Real Madrid still believe in La Liga race

During the interview, Courtois was also asked about the team’s chances in La Liga this season. 

The goalkeeper remains confident that Real Madrid can still compete for the title, even though the challenge in the league is very different from European competition.

“Yes, we can, we’ve proven it. You can’t compare the league with the Champions League. 

“Some teams play more openly, we find more space and we’re better. In LaLiga, they defend a little lower and that’s where we struggle.”

Courtois praises Valverde’s impact

Another important talking point from the match was the outstanding performance of Federico Valverde, who scored all three goals for Real Madrid.

Courtois highlighted how dangerous the Uruguayan midfielder can be when he runs into space behind the opposition defence.

“Very happy. He’s very fast, very strong, and shoots well. We practised that a bit and it worked out really well. And the third goal was beautiful.”

Finally, Courtois highlighted his assist by stating, “I’m looking for assists. Looking behind the defence, Fede is lethal and he’s done very well.”

Alexander-Arnold reacts to big win

Trent Alexander-Arnold was very proud of the performance. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold also spoke after the game and addressed the doubts that surrounded the team before the match.

The English defender admitted that many people expected Manchester City to dominate the game, especially considering the recent form of both sides. 

However, he praised the mentality shown by the Real Madrid players on such a big stage.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid full-back, said that many people expected them to be “thrashed,” but that “at this club there are no excuses and, whoever we’re up against, we have to win.”

Speaking after the final whistle, Alexander-Arnold reflected on the strong team performance at the Bernabéu.

“We played a great game. There has been a lot of noise in recent weeks because of the way we have been playing. 

“Many people expected us to get thrashed, but we showed great mentality. This competition means a lot to this club. We executed our plan perfectly.”

The defender also pointed out that despite Manchester City being seen by many as favourites before the match, Real Madrid never doubted their ability to compete.

“A lot of people said they were favourites, and given the way we had been playing, that might have been true, but this is the Champions League, and anyone can win. 

“At this club, there are no excuses. You have to win. It doesn’t matter who you’re up against, you have to win.”

Lastly, Alexander-Arnold also had strong words of praise for Valverde after his incredible performance.

On Valverde, who scored all three of Real Madrid’s goals, Alexander-Arnold described him as “the most underrated player in the world. When you play with him, you can see that.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo