Raul Albiol believes Napoli do not miss Gonzalo Higuain and can cause Real Madrid serious problems in the Champions League.

The Partenopei qualified top of their group for the first time, but the draw for the Round of 16 was not kind and put them up against the reigning trophy holders.

“Every player in the world would like to be at Real Madrid and I did have four wonderful years there,” Albiol told Canale 21.

Raul Albiol believes Napoli do not miss Gonzalo Higuain and can cause Real Madrid serious problems in the Champions League.

The Partenopei qualified top of their group for the first time, but the draw for the Round of 16 was not kind and put them up against the reigning trophy holders.

“Every player in the world would like to be at Real Madrid and I did have four wonderful years there,” Albiol told Canale 21.

“It’s a spectacular club and the rapport with the fans was great, as they made me feel at home. It’ll be special to face them in the Champions League.

“From the first day I arrived in Naples, I felt like it was a family. Compared to Madrid, it’s a more jovial and friendly locker room atmosphere.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is really a great person. Outside of football he always tries to help children and works very hard to improve every day.”

CR7 is there, but Napoli lost hitman Higuain to their arch rivals Juventus this summer in a €90m move.

“At the end of the day players come and go, but the important thing is that we retained the Coach,” continued Albiol.

“Maurizio Sarri worked with us a great deal last year, so we already know the defensive movements and have further improved this season.

“We know it’s fundamental to do even more to win games and fight for the Scudetto or at least second place. Our mentality is better now and we realise that we’re a great team, but if we don’t do things the right way, we become average.

“The difference in football nowadays is made by intensity and mentality. We’re a young side and we’re hungry for success.”

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