Manchester United Under-21s lead coach Adam Lawrence has said the upcoming meeting of “two iconic sides”
is an amazing opportunity for players and fans alike.
The two youth teams meet at Old Trafford next week, on Tuesday 7 April, with tickets available to watch the action live.
There's plenty on the line in this 19:00 BST kick-off, with the pair battling for a spot in the last four of the Premier League International Cup.
In terms of development, experience and the chance to win a prestigious competition, Lawrence is excited for his players heading into this fixture.
“It's going to be a great occasion, for us to play in an international competition,”
the lead coach told MUTV in an exclusive interview.
“Obviously, with a club of Real Madrid's stature, [this opportunity] is an amazing one for the players, so it's one that they've obviously been really looking forward to as soon as the draw came out.
”We want to expose our players to the biggest competitions and some of the best academies across Europe, and that's obviously what they've been able to do.
“So, when we look at these types of oppositions and the different challenges that the different games give you, it's fantastic.”
The young Reds reached the quarter-final stage of this competition via two wins at Old Trafford against Athletic Club and Borussia Dortmund, and another victory at the Progress With Unity Stadium over Portuguese side Sporting.
That earned us a spot in the knockout rounds of this trophy for the first time since 2018/19, and there's no greater welcome to the business end of the competition than a night under the lights against Los Blancos.
Having said that, Lawrence is keen that the occasion doesn't alter the exciting style his side have attacked this season with.
“It's in the DNA of the club,”
Lawrence continued.
“Essentially what you're trying to do is each time a fan sees one of the Man United teams play, they should see those golden threads or consistencies in the things that they see, regardless of the age or the stage of where the players are at.”
There's still time for fans to book their spot at Old Trafford for this clash, not only to watch some exciting football between two of Europe's best academy sides, but also to provide a boost to our young Reds.
“The players are really, really proud to represent the club,” Lawrence said.
“They feel the fans' support every time they're playing a game, whether that's at Leigh, Old Trafford or an away fixture.
”And hopefully, in terms of that never-say-die attitude, or that winning mentality, that shines out within the group as well.“
WATCH THE YOUNG REDS PLAY REAL MADRID
Tickets start at £10 for adults and just £5 for under-16s, and your support for Lawrence's side would be hugely appreciated.
“I just think the tie's got a really good feel about it,”
the lead coach said. “In terms of the level of the two teams, the competition that we're in, the game being played at Old Trafford.
”We welcome the fans' support and would really appreciate it if they can come in their numbers, for sure.“