Roma sporting director Monchi insists “we’re closer to what we want” ahead of the second match against Real Madrid.
The Giallorossi lost 3-0 at the Bernabeu in the first match, but both sides are on nine points ahead of the meeting at the Olimpico.
“In terms of motivation, Roma are at 100 per cent,” Monchi told Marca.
“Last year was great, then we made a lot of changes this year and it took us some time to find the right path.
Roma sporting director Monchi insists “we’re closer to what we want” ahead of the second match against Real Madrid.
The Giallorossi lost 3-0 at the Bernabeu in the first match, but both sides are on nine points ahead of the meeting at the Olimpico.
“In terms of motivation, Roma are at 100 per cent,” Monchi told Marca.
“Last year was great, then we made a lot of changes this year and it took us some time to find the right path.
“Now we’re closer to what we want, the squad knows each other better and we’re reaching a good level.
“I expect a totally different game from the Bernabeu, where Roma won’t suffer as much and will be the team we’ve seen at home in the Champions League for the last year-and-a-half.
“A team that dominates, with a winning mentality. I would like to see an ambitious team playing Real head on.
“They [Madrid] are recovering their tranquility and their injured players, I see them calmer and less confused than in previous games. They have the quality, they just ned to find the right path.
“They’re trying to overcome some difficult situations, and the mark of a great team is that they can recover quickly.
“Real are always favourites, in every competition. It is always like this.”
Monchi has been criticised for some of his business in the summer, with Kevin Strootman, Alisson and Radja Nainggolan all sold.
“Because of the importance of the club, the fans, and being from the capital of Italy the plan is to have a winning project.
“Everything has to be done one step at a time, and we already made important steps last year. We always need time.
“We have one of the youngest squads in Italy and in the Champions League. We’re considering the present and the future, we have 17 internationals from Italy, the Czech Republic, Sweden, France, Serbia, Holland… it’s a project that needs time to mature.”
The director was also asked to name the player he sees as Real Madrid’s danger man.
“Maybe Benzema,” Monchi replied.
“He’s recovered his confidence and he’s taking responsibility. I also read that he wants to be Cristiano's heir. Any Real player can be decisive.
“Who would I take from them? I can’t say because I would definitely leave out two or three that I like.”