Chapter 581: I've Never Lost to Real Madrid!
Two days before the final, Manchester United finished their training camp at Carrington Base and flew to Kyiv, Ukraine.
Manchester United and Real Madrid arrived at Boryspil International Airport in Kyiv almost simultaneously, with United landing just forty-five minutes earlier.
As the Manchester United team walked out of the terminal, they were invigorated by the sight of waiting reporters and fans. The massive media presence made them realize the gravity of the Champions League final—they were one of the two most-watched teams in the world.
The importance and prestige of the Champions League final rival, and in some ways even surpass, that of the World Cup final. While the World Cup final is more politically influential, the Champions League final is purely about football.
Despite some decline in influence post-Ferguson, Manchester United has regained its stature under Mourinho, dominating English football for two consecutive years. As they walked past the media, every outlet was eager to interview them, creating a bustling atmosphere.
However, some perceptive players noticed a sense of doubt in the reporters' eyes. They seemed skeptical about Manchester United's chances against the reigning champions, Real Madrid.
Even though Manchester United had won three domestic trophies in England this season—a feat unprecedented in Premier League history—the aura of Real Madrid's consecutive Champions League triumphs and their twelve titles cast a long shadow. Many believed Real Madrid would emerge victorious in the final.
Less than an hour after Manchester United left, a plane from Madrid landed, bringing the Real Madrid team to Kyiv.
The arrival of Real Madrid caused a frenzy at the airport. Flashbulbs popped incessantly, and fans' screams almost raised the roof. Excited female fans even tried to push forward to offer flowers, kisses, or more to Ronaldo and other stars.
The contrast in reception was stark. While Manchester United took only half an hour to pass through, Real Madrid took nearly forty-five minutes due to the overwhelming attention.
A reporter from The Guardian watched the Real Madrid bus drive away, shaking his head and sighing, "In terms of popularity, the gap between Manchester United and Real Madrid is still quite large."
With both teams in Kyiv, the Champions League final was officially in its final stages. The next day would see training sessions at the Olympic National Sports Complex and press conferences, with media coverage reaching a fever pitch.
Even in distant countries with no direct involvement in the final, discussions about the match were rampant online. Football fans shared their excitement and plans for watching the game, ensuring they had ice-cold beer and snacks ready, often opting to watch the match with friends at bars.
While the world buzzed with anticipation, Manchester United remained calm, fully aware of the formidable opponent they faced. The team, composed of seasoned players, had toppled numerous strong teams in the past two years, so they did not view Real Madrid as invincible.
Mourinho was conducting a tactical meeting. There wasn't much left to say; everything had been covered repeatedly in the past week's training sessions. They had watched enough footage to see every Real Madrid player in their dreams.
They had prepared meticulously for this match. Though uncertain of victory, they knew miracles favored the well-prepared.
"Real Madrid plays total football. After losing the ball up front, two to three players will quickly press and double-team. We need to handle the ball decisively, especially in defense, to avoid being trapped in our own half."
Despite hearing this many times, the players listened attentively. The scene at the airport had deeply motivated them. Initially driven by 80% determination, they were now fully motivated.
Why should they be underestimated? Why should their opponents be favored to win? These questions sparked indignation among the United players, fueling their desire to win. The best way to vent this frustration was to defeat the mighty Real Madrid and prove themselves as Europe's top team.
Mourinho noticed this defiant attitude, seeing it as an opportunity to harness and convert into fighting spirit.
Acknowledging their lack of Champions League final experience compared to Real Madrid, Mourinho knew victory would be challenging. They needed to exploit every possible advantage. He was already planning his pre-match pep talk.
Mourinho continued, weaving these psychological cues into his speech.
"Real Madrid might underestimate us because we haven't been in a final for seven years. This could work to our advantage…"
"We have no pressure. The world expects Real Madrid to win. If they struggle, the pressure will shift to them, not us…"
By repeatedly driving these points home, Mourinho hoped to cultivate a sense of confidence and readiness in his players.
The next day, both teams trained at the Olympic National Sports Complex at different times, avoiding each other. Even at the press conferences, they did not cross paths. Real Madrid trained and held their press conference first, followed by Manchester United an hour later, with Mourinho and captain Bruno addressing the media.
Tired of repetitive questions about the pressure of facing Real Madrid, Bruno finally snapped, delivering a statement that stunned everyone.
"Let me remind you of a fact: I have faced Real Madrid four times in my career, with three wins and one draw. I have never lost to them!"
"My goal for this Champions League final is to defeat Real Madrid and win the championship. I feel no pressure. So, please stop asking similar questions. Thank you!"
After speaking, he set the microphone down and smiled at Mourinho.
Mourinho nodded and took the microphone. "Yes, that is our goal. No team reaches the final to play for second place. While we lack Real Madrid's final experience, once in the final, the opportunity is equal. We are here to compete for the Champions League just as much as they are."
Mourinho implied that his team had not received due respect.
However, the journalists barely noticed, still reeling from Bruno's bold declaration.
Had Bruno really said he'd never lost to Real Madrid and aimed to beat them in the final?
If they hadn't misheard, they wondered if Bruno had lost his mind.
Even Real Madrid's coach Zidane hadn't declared outright that they would beat Manchester United.
Was Bruno overly excited, arrogant, or engaging in psychological warfare?
Many doubted that such tactics would affect the seasoned Real Madrid squad.
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