Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham says the entire club is united in belief that they can pull off a stunning Champions League comeback against Arsenal on Wednesday, April 16, after suffering a 3-0 first-leg defeat in London last week.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, April 15, the 21-year-old midfielder admitted the result was far from ideal, but said that Real Madrid’s legacy, mentality, and talent give them confidence heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“It’s a weird environment, the last few days, it was one of the worst (first leg) results we could possibly imagine, and for some reason everyone thinks it’s nailed-on we’ll come back, and it’s a nice feeling I have to say,” Bellingham said.
“It means there’s a lot of trust in the talent, it means that you’re at a club that’s like no other, the best in the world, and that’s what it represents and signifies to me.”
Despite never overturning such a heavy first-leg defeat in the Champions League era, Madrid are drawing strength from their history of famous comebacks — or “remontadas”, as the Spanish say.
“Remontada… I’ve heard it about a million times this week, I’ve seen a million videos online,” Bellingham continued.
“(It’s) really motivating stuff, it’s a night that’s made for Real Madrid, a night that people are familiar with in this part of the world, hopefully we can add another special night.”
The England international emphasized how much the Bernabéu crowd will factor into Madrid’s mindset, saying their energy can elevate the players’ performance.
“They are huge in creating an atmosphere and an energy inside the stadium that’s infectious and the players really thrive off that… it brings a better level from us.”
“There’s an expectation from Real Madrid that when we get into these kind of holes we can come back… that’s what’s so impressive about the size of this club.”
Ancelotti: Calm, focused… and counting on Mbappé
Manager Carlo Ancelotti, a five-time Champions League-winning coach, struck a calm tone ahead of what could be another legendary night for the Spanish giants.
“I’m focussed, with a very cool head, it’s not my first night like this and I hope it will not be the last,” said Ancelotti.
“More than worried, I am excited to be able to take part in games like this from the bench.”
He urged his squad to show up with “head, heart and balls” and revealed he’s counting on Kylian Mbappé, who was sent off against Alaves in La Liga action over the weekend, to rise to the occasion.
“He’s hurt, disappointed about what happened, yesterday he trained very well, very motivated,” Ancelotti said.
“We need him… he has to score goals, more than ever, we need his goals tomorrow.”
Madrid, with their record 15 Champions League titles, will be looking to defy the odds yet again — and Bellingham says the belief in the locker room is strong.
“We want to deliver on what everyone thinks — that we can come back. That’s obviously the goal for us.”
