Arbeloa clarifies Mbappé and Bellingham return status: “You’ll see him tomorrow...”

Real Madrid’s interim coach calls for humility and ambition ahead of the Etihad showdown, while offering updates on Mbappé and Bellingham.

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa spoke to the media ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Asked about the game plan, Arbeloa made clear that the approach will not change from the first leg. “The same as the first leg. We have no other objective than to go out and win with the same humility and commitment we showed before – even more so, because it won’t be easy. Humility and ambition are what we need to show tomorrow.”

The coach was also asked whether Madrid might function better without Kylian Mbappé. Arbeloa rejected that idea. “It’s difficult to think that without the best player in the world a team can still be competitive. But that also says a lot about how well the team is playing right now.”

On the status of Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, Arbeloa confirmed that the English midfielder will not feature. “Bellingham was the one who wanted to travel with the group, but he won’t be available tomorrow. I’m happy to see him getting closer to returning – he’s going to be one of the leaders and it’s important that he’s here with us. Mbappé is available again. You’ll see tomorrow.”

Arbeloa stressed that the team is fully aware of the challenge posed by Pep Guardiola’s side. “We know how difficult tomorrow’s game will be and the opponent we’re facing. If we want to win, we can’t think about anything other than performing at a very high level – like in the first leg, or even better – with solidarity, effort, and sacrifice, and being capable of hurting them.”

He also discussed how Mbappé’s return might affect the team’s style of play. “Kylian gives us different qualities compared with other players like Brahim, but he also connects well with them. He’s a very intelligent player and capable of moving into the spaces the opponent leaves. I’m excited to have him on the field.”

When asked about balancing academy players and established stars, Arbeloa dismissed the idea that there are untouchable figures in the squad. “In the two months I’ve been here, I haven’t felt there are any sacred cows. Players like Federico Valverde, Vinícius Júnior, or Aurélien Tchouaméni have earned their minutes on the field – they’re not untouchable. The young academy players are performing at a very high level and playing really well, which is what they know how to do.”

As for whether matches of this magnitude could determine his own future on the bench, Arbeloa brushed aside the question. “That’s the last thing on my mind right now – I don’t think about it and it doesn’t concern me. What matters is that tomorrow’s game continues to excite Real Madrid supporters. I’ll be here for as long as I need to be and I’ll be happy until the very last day.”

Arbeloa understands Guardiola decision

Arbeloa was also asked about Manchester City’s decision not to train ahead of the game. “I think Guardiola explained it well this morning. It’s nothing new for them. This is Guardiola’s 987th game in charge – I’m not the one who should be giving him advice. They know each other very well and play almost with their eyes closed because they’ve been together for so many years.”

On Valverde’s role within the team, Arbeloa praised the Uruguayan’s versatility. “Fede can play in any position and he does it really well everywhere. He’s at his best level and scoring goals, and he has the freedom to move around the pitch. When Bellingham and Mbappé return, we need to keep this version of Fede.”

Finally, Arbeloa highlighted Arda Güler’s recent performance. “That goal against Elche was spectacular – a real stunner. And that duel with Erling Haaland… we need to defend the Norwegian, and the more players involved the better. But I think Arda did a good job, and hopefully we can repeat that tomorrow.”

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