Arsenal prepares for UEFA quarter-final against Real Madrid

Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers and striker Alessia Russo held a press conference ahead of their UEFA Women's Champions League quarter-final match against Real Madrid. The game will kick off at 5:45 PM UK time tomorrow. Slegers confirmed that 23 players traveled for the match. Lotte Wubben-Moy and Daphne van Domselaar did not make the trip. She praised Real Madrid's strength and discipline, highlighting the need to neutralize key players to secure a win. Russo shared her excitement about playing in her first Champions League quarter-final. She feels the team is in a positive place after their recent match against Everton. Slegers noted Laia Codina is back from minor injuries and emphasized the importance of versatility in their squad. Both women expressed confidence in their preparations for facing Real Madrid. Slegers mentioned learning from Codina and teammate Mariona Caldentey, who have experience against Madrid. Russo remarked on the competition's intensity and the valuable lessons learned from past encounters. Ahead of the match, both Slegers and Russo highlighted their team's commitment to working hard and improving. They acknowledged the significance of winning the Champions League and are eager to showcase Arsenal's capabilities on the big stage.