Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno has admitted that the club face an ‘extra motivation’ in playing Manchester United in the Champions League.
Whilst former Madrid player Butragueno recognises the prestige in the fixture, he began by admitting that it might have been better to have cropped up later on in the competition.
“I would have liked us to have played against United later, but they will also not be happy,” the communication director told reporters after the draw.
“It will be a beautiful tie for the audience and for the players. It is an honour to face a team as prestigious as them. Hopefully we will arrive for the tie in good condition and with all our players recovered.
“Are United the most feared opponent? There was no preference. You have to prepare well. It is an incentive for the players, the public and the club.
“Coping with Manchester United is an extra motivation and we must seize upon this expectation. We have to play and prepare well.”
