On Monday, January 19th, I attended the M-1 UEFA Champions League press conference at Valdebebas, ahead of Real Madrid’s match against AS Monaco. It had been a while since I last sat in the press conference room, and this was my first time attending a pre-match Champions League press conference, which is different from the La Liga one I have attended before.
The press conference officially started at 13:00 with Kylian Mbappé, although before that he has already completed three private interviews with selected rights-holders. Once the room was filled with cameras and journalists, it was time for the questions.
Kylian Mbappé
Mbappé was asked questions in Spanish, French, and English, switching effortlessly between languages. Most questions were focussed on the recent managerial change, the situation surrounding Vinícius Júnior, and the booing from the stands during the first half of the match against Levante UD the previous Saturday.
What stood out to me was how composed he remained throughout. His answers were honest and thoughtful, but he was not afraid to challenge journalists who were clearly fishing for a headline rather than an answer. It felt very controlled, very intentional, and very experienced.
Álvaro Arbeloa
After Mbappé finished, there was a short five-minute break before Álvaro Arbeloa took his seat. This was his first Champions League press conference, and in my opinion, he handled it well.
He answered every question calmly, consistently defending his players and highlight their individual qualities. There was a clear sense of responsibility and trust in his squad, something that came across strongly in the way he spoke.
A first for Álvaro Arbeloa.
From Press Room to Match Night
Once the press conference wrapped up, it was time to head home, hit the gym, and prepare some university work with a presentation coming up.
The following night’s match on Tuesday, January 20th, was watched from Valencia, and the 6-1 win for Real Madrid did not go unnoticed.
A different kind of Match Day experience, one that shows how much happens before the ball is even kicked.
On to the next one!
