Arshavin has never hidden his dislike for Real Madrid, nor his admiration for Barcelona. Speaking to Sport Express, the former Russia international once declared: “I wouldn’t play for Madrid for all the money in the world. For me, Real Madrid is a total taboo. I’ve been a Barcelona fan for a long time.”
In another interview outside Almaty’s Central Stadium ahead of their clash with Los Blancos, Arshavin again made his feelings crystal clear: “I hope Kairat win. Every Real Madrid defeat is like a balm for my heart.” It was a lighthearted comment delivered with a smirk, but the sentiment reflected a deep-rooted bias that has lasted for years. The ex-forward, who ended his career at Kairat Almaty in 2018, has frequently backed his old side in continental matches — particularly when they meet Madrid.
Even when offering praise, Arshavin can’t resist adding a subtle jab. When discussing Madrid’s manager, he said: “Xabi Alonso did excellent work at Bayer Leverkusen, but replicating that style in Madrid will be far more difficult. Even if he succeeds, it will never quite resemble what he built at Bayer.” For Arshavin, any conversation about Real Madrid seems incomplete without a reminder of his disdain.