Madrid Universal
·16 April 2025
Man United legend issues Real Madrid warning to Arsenal – ‘Have that winning blood’

Madrid Universal
·16 April 2025
Earning the title of the comeback kings of Europe is not something many teams can achieve, but Real Madrid have shown time and time again to have what it takes.
Over the years, Los Blancos have mounted several comebacks to the point that there is now confidence that they can pull it off once more.
The only hurdle, however, is Arsenal’s stunning defensive record lately and the Gunners will be confident in not allowing Real Madrid any roads back into the game.
Manchester United legend Antonio Valencia faced Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu once in 2013 as part of the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 and spoke to the media earlier this week on how Arsenal have no room for error despite their comfortable lead.
Speaking through personal experience, the former Red Devils star said,
“If Arsenal doesn’t arrive with one hundred per cent concentration, they are going to have a hard time. Madrid have that winning blood, with their fans, a spectacular stadium, it’s going to be an incredible atmosphere.”
Elaborating on what he expected from Wednesday night’s game, Valencia said,
“I think it’s going to be a very nice game. I had the opportunity to play at the Bernabéu and it’s a different atmosphere. I hope people enjoy it and go home happy.”
The former right-winger then went on to elaborate on the flawless game Arsenal must play on the night to keep Real Madrid at bay.
“When you’re at this level, you can’t go wrong. Mistakes have to be minimal because if you do it, you leave.”
Real Madrid are out for blood. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“With the level that Madrid has, with very talented players at the top, like Vinicius, all these people are very dangerous,” he added.
Valencia was then asked about Real Madrid’s ability to come back from any deficit and whether he believed there was a way back for them tomorrow night.
“I think that if Arsenal doesn’t arrive concentrated, they will suffer a lot because Madrid is a team that plays very well.”
“In addition, Madrid is used to this kind of game. In recent years they have played this type of game and he does it one hundred percent. I think Madrid is going to show the level it has,” he added.
Finally, the United legend was asked why he turned down the chance to join Real Madrid when the offer was open on his table, to which said,
“I had the opportunity to sign for Real Madrid I had a meeting with a club manager. I loved the idea, but I have always thought about my family and my family made the decision.
“They told me that they were happy in Manchester, that they were happy, so we decided to stay.”
“We didn’t move and thank God I spent ten wonderful years. Although I have always thanked the people of Real Madrid for giving me that opportunity to meet and know that they were interested in me,” he added.
Source: MARCA