Javier Aguirre explains how Valencia plan to stop Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappe: ‘We will try to make sure…’

Javier Aguirre explains how Valencia plan to stop Real Madrid and Kylian Mbappe: ‘We will try to make sure…’ Javier Aguirre has challenged Real Madrid to match Valencia’s perseverance when the sides meet at Mestalla on Saturday, November 7.  The Valencia manager insists his team will not approach the La Liga encounter believing defeat is inevitable, despite facing a Real Madrid side which is in fine form this season. The Mexican manager also discussed his relationship with Mourinho, recalled a memorable victory against Real Madrid and explained why improving Valencia’s position matters more than the occasion itself. Aguirre recalls beating Mourinho’s Real Madrid at the Bernabeu Aguirre has previous experience of upsetting Mourinho’s Madrid, having guided his Real Zaragoza side to a 3-2 victory at the Bernabeu during the 2010–11 season.  However, he remembers the response that followed, when Madrid won 5-0 on the opening day of the subsequent campaign. “I remember that 2-3 result at the Bernabeu in the 2010–11 season. On the opening day of the following season, they thrashed us 5–0 – I’d made them angry. “It’s a nice little anecdote. I have a great deal of respect for Madrid, and Mourinho is a top manager. ‘There’s no such thing as a bad fifth’ is a lovely saying. Let’s try to make it happen tomorrow. We’re playing against one of the world’s giants who’ve just had a perfect Champions League campaign. “We’re going to try to win. A lot can happen in a single match. Under no circumstances are we going into it thinking we can’t win and that they’re the favourites,” he said. Furthermore, Aguirre described Mourinho as a close friend and praised his managerial qualities. “I’ve known him for many years. He’s a very good friend and a fine manager.  Javier Aguirre beat Mourinho’s Real Madrid in the 2010/11 season. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) “I have nothing but warm words for him. He deserves my utmost respect. Whatever he says will be fine by me.” Aguirre explains how Valencia intend to contain Mbappe Kylian Mbappe is an obvious threat for Valencia, particularly in situations where he can isolate defenders.  Aguirre acknowledged the forward’s individual qualities but insisted Valencia must find a way to restrict Real Madrid collectively. “Mbappe is a player I’m not about to reveal anything new about now. He’s unstoppable in a one-on-one situation, but there are eleven of us, and we’ll try to neutralise the whole of Real Madrid.  “We will try to make sure he isn’t comfortable – neither him nor anyone else – and that he can’t utilise his pace, his spectacular play and his finishing.  “I’m not saying anything that any of us in this room don’t already know.” Asked how his team could overcome Real Madrid, the Valencia manager offered a concise assessment, stating, “By playing a perfect match, and that involves a whole host of things.” Valencia’s situation gives Aguirre added motivation For Aguirre, the fixture is about testing his players against one of Europe’s biggest clubs.  Valencia’s current position in the league standings, 19th, means securing points is essential, with the manager emphasising the responsibility attached to representing the club. Javier Aguirre says Valencia will not back down against Real Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) “We want to win. I don’t care what label they want to stick on us. We have to get Valencia out of the difficult situation they’re in because it’s a historic club.  “The club’s reputation is at stake. The circumstances demand that you do whatever it takes.” He also backed Mourinho’s honesty when asked about the Real Madrid manager’s comments regarding player fatigue. “Jose is very honest. He tells it like it is, and what he says is true. Everyone has their own style, and I have a lot of respect for Jose.  “We’ve got a great chance of getting a fantastic result. We’re in the league.” Aguirre refused to get drawn into Madrid’s complaints about refereeing, responding, “I’m not going to answer that because you’re getting me into a right mess.” Lastly, when asked which Madrid player he would remove if given the power, he delivered one final light-hearted response, “I’d take all eleven off, but I don’t have that power,” he concluded.