Alvaro Arbeloa stepped into the spotlight as Real Madrid’s interim head coach, facing the media ahead of the Copa del Rey round of 16 clash against Albacete. The press conference carried significan...
Alvaro Arbeloa stepped into the spotlight as Real Madrid’s interim head coach, facing the media ahead of the Copa del Rey round of 16 clash against Albacete.
The press conference carried significant weight, coming less than 24 hours after the club made the decision to dismiss Xabi Alonso, a move that sent shockwaves through the Bernabéu.
For Arbeloa, however, the moment was about responsibility, continuity, and belonging.
Opening his address, the former defender made it clear that this opportunity carried deep personal meaning.
“It’s a special day. As have all the days I’ve been part of Real Madrid.
“I’ve been here for 20 years. It’s the best club in history. I’m aware of the responsibility I have and very excited,” he began.
Talks with Xabi Alonso
He then explained how the transition unfolded and confirmed that he spoke directly with Xabi Alonso following the decision.
“Yesterday afternoon, I was informed that Xabi and the club had reached an agreement and that they wanted me to take responsibility.
“Of course, I spoke with Xabi. Everyone here knows how close we are. I appreciate him very much and love him, and I know the feeling is mutual.”
Asked whether his role could extend beyond an interim spell, Arbeloa offered a simple but heartfelt answer.“I’ve been here for 20 years and I’ll stay as long as Madrid wants me to. This is my home, that’s how I feel.”
He returned to his relationship with Alonso, reinforcing the respect between the two.
“He wished me well, just as I would do for him. We have a friendship that is above all else. He’s going to do very well and we’ll always be together.”
Turning attention to the team and the immediate task ahead, Arbeloa avoided tactical details, stressing unity and excitement.
“What I discussed with Xabi stays between us. I’m really looking forward to my first game. We’re playing for everything in the Cup.
“I have an extraordinary squad at my disposal. I can’t wait for it to start.”
Addressing the elephant in the room
Arbeloa was keen to highlight the commitment shown by the players despite recent setbacks.
“We’ve all seen in recent games how hard they worked in the Super Cup.Let’s not forget that there are players with six European Cups.
“That seems to be forgotten quickly. That’s what has made Madrid the best club in history.”
Arbeloa reveals he spoke with Alonso. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Addressing concerns about egos in the dressing room, Arbeloa dismissed the idea entirely.
“It’s not something that worries me much. There’s no one more interested in winning titles than the players.
“I’ve told them that the best time of my life was playing for Madrid, they have to enjoy it. They’re self-motivated. It’s been a good first contact.”
Months ahead for Arbeloa
The former defender also outlined his vision for the months ahead, stating,
“We have a long season ahead of us, and we’re in great shape for all the tournaments.
“That’s what concerns me, having everyone available, getting to know each other, working with them.
“The important thing is that they’re happy, that they enjoy themselves on the field.”
On expectations at Real Madrid, Arbeloa was clear about the standard.
“Madrid has 120 years of history and it’s difficult to get recognition for things.
“I know how demanding we are and what it means to play well, what the fans want to see. Here, winning is what matters.”
On Mourinho and Pintus
Asked about Jose Mourinho, Arbeloa acknowledged his influence but stressed on his own identity.
“I haven’t spoken to him. For me, it was a privilege to be coached by him, a person who had a big influence on me.
“I’m going to be Arbeloa, I’m not afraid of failure, but if I wanted to be Mou, I would fail miserably.”
He also praised Antonio Pintus and the club’s physical setup.
“For me, it’s a privilege to have Pintus on the coaching staff. He knows the players well and has his own method, which we know works well here.”
Summing up what Real Madrid must always represent, Arbeloa said,
“When I was a player, I learned the values in the dressing room, and that’s the most important thing. That’s my obsession.”
On Vinicius and the dressing room
Arbeloa wants Vinicius to replicate his Super Cup form. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Furthermore, Arbeloa also addressed the situation surrounding Vinicius Jr., stating,
“I don’t speculate on scenarios that haven’t happened. I’m focused on tomorrow’s game.
“I’m lucky to have Vini, he’s loved by all the fans. We all saw the final. That’s the Vini we want to see, the one who enjoys himself, who laughs, who dances.”
Finally, Arbeloa described the mood inside the squad and the clean slate he is offering.
“Everyone is starting from scratch. It’s a new beginning. That’s it, it’s a new beginning for everyone, starting with the match against Albacete.
“All the players are really eager. They’ve shown me that enthusiasm,” he concluded.
Source: AS
Category: General Sports
