Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has reportedly promised a substantial financial bonus to players if they overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit against Arsenal and advance to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
According to SPORT, Perez personally addressed the squad—including star forward Kylian Mbappe, after their narrow 1-0 La Liga win over Alaves.
Perez delivered a motivational speech aimed at galvanizing the team ahead of Wednesday night’s decisive quarter-final return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.
“If you win and reach the semi-finals, you’ll receive a reward from the club,” Perez reportedly told the squad in the dressing room at Mendizorroza.
The incentive is intended to boost morale and belief as Madrid faces a significant challenge against Mikel Arteta’s disciplined Arsenal side.
Recall Madrid has previously issued performance-based bonuses, most recently after their Round of 16 triumph over Atletico Madrid.
However, the current stakes are considerably higher, with both sporting glory and potential leadership changes on the line.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has been actively engaging his players in strategic discussions, pressing for a “remontada” as speculation grows around his long-term future at the club.
Failure to advance could have implications not only for Real Madrid’s European ambitions but also for Ancelotti’s position heading into the summer.
