Arbeloa keeps press conference brief— and hints at farewells coming at the Bernabéu

Álvaro Arbeloa delivered one of his shortest press conferences yet after Real Madrid’s win at the Sánchez‑Pizjuán. He defended Mbappé and Vinicius — “Four very tough months for everyone, including them” — and joked about barely moving in the technical area: “Sevilla’s benches were comfortable. I felt comfortable.”

He also warned that next Saturday’s game against Athletic Club at the Bernabéu will be “a day of farewells,” and left a line that will echo all week: “Real Madrid has always been defined by having the best Spanish players.”

You seemed less active in the technical area today... Is there a reason for that?

No, nothing special. The benches at Sevilla were pretty comfortable, so I stayed put. The team played a really solid game in a stadium that’s always tough, against a great opponent. The guys knew exactly what they had to do, and we controlled the match from start to finish. I’m happy to take home the three points.

What will next week be like for you? What are you expecting from the Bernabéu?

I don’t know (smiles). We’ll see if they end up moving our game or not. I’m not sure how things stand with Athletic and all the possible tiebreakers. We’ll wait for the final schedule, then plan the week — training sessions, who’s available — because a few players came off with some discomfort. It’s the last match… a day of goodbyes too, for sure, for some players. So we’ll try to put on a great performance in front of our fans and enjoy every minute wearing this jersey. And… well, for me too.

Mbappé and Vinicius... Which of the two are you more satisfied with this season?

(Laughs) I’m very satisfied with all of the players, with their effort. We’re fully aware we didn’t meet the goals we set, and we always want to improve. I’ve only been here four months, and both of them have tried to give everything. Each one has faced his own challenges. It’s been a tough four months for everyone, including them. But they’re players any team in the world would want. If they could, every club would take them. They’re two of the five most dangerous players on the planet, no doubt. Real Madrid is lucky to have both. Today it was Vini’s turn to score, but Kylian worked incredibly hard — it’s a shame he couldn’t get a goal too. Hopefully next weekend he has better luck.

You mentioned players with discomfort. Can you give more details?

Yes… Vini came off with some tightness. Aurélien wasn’t at 100% today. Dean took a knock. We’ll see how the week goes and whether we can get them back for the weekend. And if not, you know the academy can always help us out — like Leiva today here in Sevilla, another young guy stepping up. So congrats to him and to the whole academy for the work they’re doing.

But nothing serious, right?

No, no. I don’t think so. Just minor issues. Nothing major.

How did you see the Spanish players today?

They all played well; they’re four great players. Real Madrid has always been known for having the best Spanish talent. And these four… what can I say. Dean had a great game. Carva, another full 90 minutes at a really high level, very solid. Thiago too, contributing like always. Fran… (pauses). I’m very happy with them. Gonzalo and Raúl didn’t play today, but we have a strong group of Spanish players — many of them young, with a big future. We’re very happy to have them at Real Madrid.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.