Arbeloa ahead of El Clásico: “It feels like a betrayal of Real Madrid – of this badge”

It’s been an interesting few days in the capital, to say the least, and now there is Barcelona in El Clásico.

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Update: May 9th, 2026 05:32 EDT

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Álvaro Arbeloa faced what was likely his most delicate press conference since taking charge, and that’s saying something. Against a backdrop of internal tensions, leaks and a season of no trophies, the coach delivered a blunt message, including a firm defense of his team.

“I am responsible for everything that happens at Real Madrid,” he said plainly, setting the tone for a response in which he refused to single out individual blame.

Arbeloa press conference ahead of El Clásico

Rather than fuel the situation, Arbeloa adopted a protective stance toward his players, especially following recent incidents. “The players have acknowledged their mistake, they’ve apologized… for me, that’s enough,” he explained. “I’m not going to burn them at the stake publicly, because they don’t deserve it.”

Arbeloa ahead of El Clásico: “It feels like a betrayal of Real Madrid – of this badge” — Arbeloa's El Clásico press conference.JAVIER GANDUL

The coach also firmly rejected any suggestion that the group lacks professionalism: “It’s not true that they aren’t professionals or that they’ve disrespected me. Frustration and anger can take you into situations you don’t want.”

One of the most sensitive issues was the emergence of information from inside the locker room. Arbeloa did not hide his frustration: “When things leak from the locker room, it feels like a betrayal of Real Madrid – of this badge.”

Still, he avoided launching a hunt for those responsible. “I don’t work for the CIA… I can’t accuse anyone. What happens with my players stays between them and me.”

Authority intact and backing for Mbappé

Asked about his control of the players, Arbeloa was unequivocal: “I feel my authority is completely intact.” He also stood firmly behind Kylian Mbappé amid recent criticism: “All I can do is speak for him – for his work and the way he treats me.

“When a player doesn’t play, it’s not for anything off the field.”

A ‘healthy’ squad despite the crisis

Despite the noise surrounding the team, the coach described a united group: “I see a healthy locker room, ready to start winning again. It’s not easy to deal with two seasons without silverware.”

Even so, he struck an optimistic note: “This is a younger team, but next year it will have more experience and a better understanding of what this badge represents.”

Arbeloa also reflected on his tenure from a sporting perspective: “I ask myself a lot what I could have done to win more games.” And he pointed to key victories to frame the season: “We beat Manchester City and Atlético… but there are things that slip beyond your control.”

Madrid focused on winning El Clásico

The coach closed ranks ahead of the crucial clash with Barcelona, downplaying the fallout: “It should serve as an example for everyone. We have to turn the page.”

“All our energy is on tomorrow’s game.” And on that game, there was no hesitation: “We’re going there with ambition – to win.”