On the eve of the match, Richard and Mourinho took the team to the Amsterdam ArenA to get acclimated to the pitch, while O'Neill attended an official press conference organized by UEFA. For Manchester City, Zanetti accompanied O'Neill, while for Real Madrid, Jupp Heynckes was joined by Fernando Hierro as captain.
"Señor Heynckes, Real Madrid have waited 32 years for this moment. How does it feel to finally bring back the final?"
"It is a historic night. For the club, for the fans, and for the players. To end such a long wait… it is the dream of every Madridista. I am proud of my team's discipline and character against such a strong Manchester City side. Their performance deserves applause."
"Coach, in La Liga you finished fourth, eleven points behind Barcelona, and you were knocked out of the Copa del Rey by Alavés. Some say you've only saved your job for one more week. Others say tonight is your farewell. How do you respond?"
