Rafael Benitez is delighted to be in Melbourne to kick off his managerial career with Real Madrid but not so upbeat about the MCG surface for Saturday's clash with AS Roma.
More than 10,000 Real Madrid fans paid $18 to watch the star-studded team train on the iconic ground on Friday morning.
Over 225,000 tickets have been sold for the three International Champions Cup matches between Real, AS Roma and Manchester City over the next week, but Benitez noted the playing surface for the tournament is less than ideal.
"I have to say, the pitch was not the best," the Spaniard told reporters.
"We have to be aware of that, we have an important game, important players so hopefully they can do their best for the game."
The MCG has been hit by a solid week of rain after 15 rounds of the AFL season.
The pitch could yet worsen with more rain forecast and the AFL clash between the Melbourne Demons and Brisbane Lions on Sunday a chance to scuff up the turf before Tuesday's fixture between Roma and Man City.
The former Real Madrid youth player said the MCG pitch didn't compare to AAMI Park or City Football Academy where they have trained during the week.
"The facilities we have been training (on) have been really good, we have been pleased," he said.
"I know (the game) will not be easy, just to say it is fine but it could be a little bit better."
Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale competed for the biggest cheers among the 10,115-strong crowd for a wet open training session.
Among those watching was Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, who would not reveal how much the government paid to secure the even, but was confident the huge interest showed it to be a shrewd decision.
"Victorians will come out to see elite sport, we fill stadiums in this state and we're very, very proud of that," he said.
Andrews foreshadowed an announcement tying the event to Melbourne.
"We want to see the ICC stay where it absolutely belongs ... hopefully we can make some exciting announcements about that soon."
Benitez, 55, was appointed as coach after the Castillian club sacked Carlo Ancelotti after a second-place finish in La Liga last season.
Benitez did not reveal his plans for replacing departed goalkeeper Iker Casillas, saying he would not comment on speculation that Manchester United keeper David de Gea is a target.
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