Carlo Ancelotti promises high-intensity clash as Real Madrid face Arsenal

Real Madrid coach emphasizes team fitness and experience ahead of Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal.

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti speaks during a press conference ahead of their UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter-final first leg at Sobha Realty Training Centre on April 7, 2025, in London Colney, England. Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Carlo Ancelotti promises a high-intensity clash as Real Madrid face Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-final, underlining the team’s excellent physical condition and experience as key strengths heading into one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season. Speaking ahead of the first leg, scheduled for Wednesday, April 9 at 02.00 WIB at the Emirates Stadium in London, the Italian coach radiated confidence about his squad's preparedness.

“Right now, our team is in very good physical condition and we will play with high intensity,” Ancelotti stated, as quoted on Real Madrid’s official website. This declaration signals Los Blancos' intent to bring aggressive and energetic football to The Gunners’ home ground, where Real Madrid hopes to take an early advantage in the two-legged tie.

Real Madrid’s readiness: fitness and focus

Real Madrid have built their season around peaking at the right time—and that time is now. With La Liga momentum on their side and their eyes set on another European crown, Ancelotti has been carefully rotating his squad to ensure they are in top condition for crucial matches like this one.

From veterans like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos to rising stars such as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga, the blend of youth and experience gives Real Madrid the balance and energy needed to challenge any opponent. Ancelotti’s confidence reflects not only his faith in their physical endurance but also in their tactical discipline.

“We’ve worked hard for this moment,” Ancelotti emphasized. “We know how difficult it is to play at this level, especially against a team like Arsenal who are very strong, but we are not afraid. Our players know how to handle these situations.”

One of Ancelotti’s recurring themes ahead of big European nights is the importance of experience. For Real Madrid, a club synonymous with Champions League glory, this experience is a competitive advantage.

“The experience in this tournament is very important,” said the coach who guided Real Madrid to their 15th Champions League title in 2024. “The knowledge and experience make us not afraid to play in a match like this with so much pressure.”

Ancelotti pointed out that seasoned players serve as mentors for the younger ones. “It is very important to have players who have participated in many matches like this because it helps the young players and gives them more confidence,” he added. The message is clear: Real Madrid will rely on its veterans to lead the charge while giving space for emerging stars to shine.

Arsenal vs Real Madrid: A rare but historic clash

This tie marks just the second time Real Madrid and Arsenal have met in the Champions League. Their only previous encounter was in the 2005–06 season, also in the quarter-finals. In that series, Arsenal narrowly advanced to the semi-finals after securing a 1-0 aggregate win, courtesy of a famous goal from Thierry Henry at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Now, nearly two decades later, the two giants of European football meet again under vastly different circumstances. Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, have returned to the Champions League with renewed ambition and a youthful squad that has been making waves in the Premier League.

Real Madrid, by contrast, are a club whose DNA is written in European glory. With 15 Champions League titles to their name, they carry the weight of history and expectation every time they step onto the pitch in this competition.

With both teams known for their fluid football and tactical discipline, fans can expect a thrilling encounter. Ancelotti’s focus on high-intensity play suggests Real Madrid will aim to press aggressively and control possession in the midfield.

Much attention will be on how Real Madrid’s defense manages Arsenal’s quick attackers such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Likewise, Arsenal will be tested in containing Real Madrid’s powerful midfield trio and the goal-scoring threat of Vinícius Júnior and possibly Kylian Mbappé, if he is indeed match-ready.

Ancelotti’s experience as a tactician—paired with his calm demeanor under pressure—may prove decisive in a tie that could come down to the finest of margins.

This quarter-final is more than just another European tie. For Real Madrid, it represents a step closer to yet another title in a competition they dominate like no other. For Arsenal, it is a chance to make a statement—to show they belong among Europe’s elite and can go toe-to-toe with the continent’s most decorated clubs.

Regardless of the outcome, the match promises fireworks. Ancelotti’s declaration that Real Madrid will play with intensity and experience ensures that fans will see the Spanish giants push for victory in a manner fitting of their European legacy.

Madrid’s mission begins in London

Carlo Ancelotti promises a high-intensity clash as Real Madrid face Arsenal in the Champions League. With a well-prepared squad and a coach who knows how to win under pressure, Los Blancos are setting out on a mission that could lead them to another final. Their first step: navigating a tough challenge at the Emirates.

Fans worldwide will be watching as this classic European showdown unfolds. One side seeks history, the other redemption. But if Ancelotti’s words are anything to go by, Real Madrid are not just ready—they’re hungry.