Butragueno on Totti, Roma and Real Madrid

El Buitre, director of institutional relations at Los Merengues, welcomed Roma TV to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, looking back over the key moments of his career and discussing the upcoming Champions League match against the Giallorossi.

"Roma are a dangerous side, they're very competitive and full of experienced players," said the former Real forward. "The managerial change has had a positive impact - as is often the case in instances like these because it motivates the whole squad - and we've seen that from their recent results."

Luciano Spalletti's side meet Zinedine Zidane's men tonight at 20:45 CET in the first leg at the Stadio Olimpico. Butragueno is not, however, expecting an easy ride for his team. "The tie will come down to fine margins. We know we'll face two very tricky games and that we'll need to be at our best to go through."

He was also quick to praise Francesco Totti, a player courted by Real Madrid in the past. "We're talking about an incredible player here. Totti is one of those players that fans want to see out there. People go to the stadium for players like him, who entertain and are blessed with flair, as well as being crucial for the team as a whole. I've always liked players like him. When they pick up the ball you never know what might happen. They're the ones who allow the sport to grow.

"There's no doubt he's a great footballer who could have played for any club in the world and made history there. He made his mind up though and I think it's a great honour for him to stay in Rome for his entire career. Over the last few years, he's proven he's a man and an example for everyone with his ties to the club.

Emilio Butragueno ended his interview with a word on the Giallorossi ownership, who he rates highly for a series of reasons.

"You get the feeling that the new owners are very determined and want to invest in the club to not only improve the team but also the institution as a whole. Therefore, I think their involvement is very positive for Roma, as well as Italian and European football. Roma have great history, it's a magnificent city and I believe they'll have a great future."