Decisive messages from Arbeloa after his appointment inside Real Madrid’s dressing room

Interim Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa appeared at a press conference to speak about tomorrow’s match against Albacete in the Round of 16 of the Copa del Rey, which will be held at Carlos Belmonte Stadium.

On taking charge of Real Madrid

Arbeloa said:
“It’s a very special day for me, just like every day I’ve spent at this club. I’ve been here for 20 years, at the greatest club in the history of football. I fully understand the responsibility and I feel extremely excited to take on this challenge.”

On Real Madrid’s identity and the players

He added:
“What we’ve seen in recent matches, especially in the Spanish Super Cup, shows the level of work being done. We have players who have won six Champions League titles, and that is quickly forgotten. This mentality is what made Real Madrid the greatest club in history.”

On the team’s issues

He explained:
“What happened between me and Xabi Alonso will remain between us. I’m very excited for my first match, as we are playing everything in the cup. I have an exceptional group of players and I’m eager to start working immediately. Real Madrid is my home, and I will stay here as long as the club wants me.”

On his relationship with Xabi Alonso

He continued:
“I was informed yesterday after an agreement between Xabi and the club. Of course we spoke, and everyone knows the strength of our friendship. We respect each other greatly and wished each other success. Our friendship will always come first.”

On the dressing room

Arbeloa said:
“Everyone starts from zero. It’s a new page for everyone, beginning with the Albacete match. I sensed great desire and clear enthusiasm from the players.”

First impressions of the squad

He added:
“I found players who are extremely motivated. Despite the heavy workload this week, there is high readiness and a shared desire to fight for everything and achieve victory.”

On Vinícius Júnior’s behavior

He stated:
“I don’t think about scenarios that haven’t happened. My full focus is on tomorrow’s match. I’m lucky to have Vinícius; he’s loved by the fans. What we saw in the final is the real Vinícius—enjoying himself, smiling, and dancing on the pitch. That’s what I want from him.”

On the team he wants to build

Arbeloa confirmed:
“Real Madrid means winning, and then winning again. That’s our identity, and that mindset filled the trophy cabinet. I learned these values as a player, and they are my true obsession.”

On the return of Antonio Pintus

He said:
“Having Pintus on the coaching staff is a great honor. He has won five Champions League titles and knows the players very well. His method works, and working with him is a real pleasure.”

On the influence of former coaches

He explained:
“I trained under great coaches who left a clear mark on my career. I took the best from each of them. I haven’t spoken to Mourinho, but he influenced me greatly. I will be Arbeloa—I’m not afraid of failure, but trying to imitate others leads to failure.”

On Real Madrid’s academy

He said:
“It’s the best academy in the world. There are players who grew up here, and working with them over the past years brought me to this moment. They know the size of the opportunity and responsibility, and I trust them.”

On the concept of attractive football

He added:
“Real Madrid has a history of more than 120 years, and it’s impossible to please everyone. Here, some have won three Champions League titles. I understand the challenge, but winning is always the most important thing.”

On the ambitions for the current season

Arbeloa stressed:
“There’s still a full season ahead, and we are in a good position in all competitions. What matters to me is everyone’s readiness and teamwork. The players are the foundation, and their happiness on the pitch is a priority. Wearing this badge is a great honor.”

Final words on the dressing room

He concluded:
“I don’t focus too much on internal atmospheres. We have great players with strong personalities. I told them that the best period of my life was playing for Real Madrid, and they should enjoy this experience. They are the ones who set the highest standards for themselves.”