Mourinho set for Real Madrid and Arbeloa reunion in decisive Champions League clash

LISBON, Jan 27 : Jose Mourinho's Benfica side will face Real Madrid on Wednesday in a make-or-break Champions League encounter, marking an emotional reunion for the Portuguese manager with his former club and one of his most trusted ex-players, Alvaro Arbeloa.

Arbeloa, in his first managerial role at senior level, took charge of Real Madrid after Xabi Alonso, another former Mourinho player, was sacked two weeks ago following a brief tenure.

Mourinho, who coached Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, spoke warmly of his former defender, referring to him as one of his "favourites" on a personal level.

"Arbeloa is my boy; he's not just a former player of mine," Mourinho said at a press conference on Tuesday. "He is one of my favourite players on a personal level. He wasn't the best footballer I had at Madrid, but he was one of the best men. He's the last person I would put pressure on."

When asked if inexperience could be a factor against Arbeloa, who rose from coaching Real's youth academy to the senior squad, Mourinho dismissed the notion, wishing his former charge success at Real Madrid - but not on Wednesday. 

"Arbeloa can coach any club in the world, and I want him to do well at Real, except for tomorrow."

Arbeloa responded affectionately to his mentor's words at a press conference later on Tuesday.

"I'm extremely proud to hear everything he said about me," Arbeloa said.

"I'm excited and happy, because he has been much more than a manager to me. Above all, on a personal level, he has been very important throughout my career. Today, I also consider him a great friend. I would like to thank him for all his words. I am really looking forward to seeing him tomorrow and giving him a big hug."

Real Madrid head into the fixture on the back