Butragueño: "We know that this competition is very difficult and we will have to perform at a very high level"

Emilio Butragueño, director of Institutional Relations, analysed the draw for the first round of the Champions League on Realmadrid TV: "We know that this competition is very difficult and we're up against opponents of the very highest level. They will be evenly matched games, and we will have to prepare very well for them. We're really hyped up for it and believe in a squad with a lot of resources and alternatives for Xabi Alonso. We're confident that the team will live up to the expectations of our fans."

Manchester City again as opponents
"We have also played Liverpool several times in recent years. We know each other well, and they are top-level teams. They are fantastic matches for the fans because they are some of the best they can see in the world. It will be very difficult, and we will have to play at a very high level to beat them."

Kairat Almaty
"We've never played against them, and they're very far away; it's another factor to take into account, considering the demanding and compressed schedule we have. We have to accept that and prepare well for that game. Every game is going to be important, and all our opponents are particularly motivated. We will have to play at a high level and pay attention to the finer points. All the particularities make this match more difficult than people think."

The matches at the Bernabéu
"They're historic rivals, with a long tradition and who know how to play this type of match. The calendar gives us no respite, but it's an opportunity for our fans to enjoy the best football. That's a very attractive challenge for us."

"The role of the fans is going to be very important for us because we have to get four wins. Our fans never let us down, and they know that this competition means a lot to them and to the club. That unity is going to be vital in those matches. It's normal for our fans to be very excited about this competition because they know that they're part of the team's success."

Remaining away games
"The last time we played Benfica was in the 60s and Olympiacos in 2006. These teams are difficult at home, as are Liverpool."