Mangala prepared to step in for Atalanta showdown

With 33 Champions League games to his name thus far, Eliaquim Mangala is amongst the current Valencia CF squad members with the most experience in the competition. The centre back has featured for three clubs in the tournament, and played minutes against Atletico Madrid last Friday in preparation for a potential appearance in the Last 16 showdown against Atalanta this week.

Mangala has previously reached the knockout stages of the Champions League with FC Porto in 2012/13 and Manchester City in 2015/16. In the latter campaign, City reached the semifinals for the first time in their history, triumphing over Dinamo Kiev and Paris Saint Germain -and Mangala played all 180 minutes of the game against the French team.

“Details make the difference in the type of game that we will have against Atalanta," he told VCF Media. "Each team has their moments during the tie, and you have to be prepared. Details and mentality are key."

Should Mangala play on Wednesday, he will be entrusted with stopping dangerous attackers such as Zapata and Ilicic, as Valencia CF attempt to carry over an advantage for the return leg at Mestalla.