Atlético Madrid president Enrique Cerezo couldn't resist a lighthearted jab at the scheduling of Thursday's pre-match lunch with Arsenal directors. Speaking to media ahead of the meal at Arsenal's training ground, Cerezo noted the unusually early hour for such a gathering.
"The next time they come to Madrid, I'm going to make them eat at three in the afternoon," Cerezo quipped, drawing laughs from reporters. The comment came as the two clubs' hierarchies met for a traditional pre-game meal, a custom that often fosters camaraderie between competing sides.
The lunch was set for just before midday in England, a time Cerezo found amusing given his own cultural norms. In Spain, lunch typically occurs later—often between 2 and 3 PM—making the early slot a topic of good-natured banter.
Cerezo's jest highlighted the cross-cultural differences in daily routines, but the underlying tone was warm. "It's always a pleasure to meet with the Arsenal family," he added, emphasizing the respect between the two clubs. The meeting comes ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg between Atlético Madrid and Arsenal, with the first leg ending in a 1-1 draw.
Both sides are preparing for a high-stakes encounter at the Emirates Stadium, and the directors' lunch serves as a diplomatic prelude to the on-pitch battle. Cerezo's light mood suggested confidence in his team's prospects, though he refrained from making any predictions.
The 77-year-old president has been a steady hand at Atlético for decades, known for his affable yet shrewd management style. His quip about the lunch timing quickly spread among fans on social media, with many appreciating his humor amid the tension of a European knockout tie.
As the two clubs broke bread earlier than usual, Cerezo's promise of a later meal in Madrid—if Arsenal visit for a future fixture—was a reminder of the cultural exchange that football facilitates. For now, both sides focus on the match, but the ice was broken with a smile.
Based on reporting from Fútbol.