"It is a very strong game but it is more difficult for us as we aren't near our top form," Eboue told FilGoal.com in an exclusive interview.

Arsenal and Real Madrid play their first tie ever on Tuesday in the first-leg of the tournament's first knock-out stage.

"We are suffering one of our worst domestic seasons in the past 15 years, losing in the Carling Cup, the FA Cup and bowing out of the Premiership title race.

"Arsenal also miss key players as Ashley Cole, Sol Campbell and Lauren whom we all need in the trip to the Santiago Bernabeu."

But the Ivorian defender, who has been promoted to a starting position after the injury of Cameroon's Lauren, stressed that all the team will fight to down Real Madrid and highlighted that he has an additional motive to shine against the Royal Club.

"It has always been my dream to play against the likes of (Zinedine) Zidane, Raul and Ronaldo. I will not leave the chance go by without getting the best of it," Eboue said.

Eboue, though, still sees the silver lining as he confidently assured that Arsenal -bidding for their first Champions League title - will become a much stronger side by time.

"We have several young and talented players who gained experience during this campaign and no doubt the future will be ours," the 23-year-old international said.

"We seek to finish the Premiership campaign in, at least, fourth spot to secure a Champions League berth next season when we will be a more fearful side."

Arsenal are fifth in the Premiership with 41 points, five adrift of London rivals Tottenham who occupy the last Champions League slot so far.