Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa insisted the club’s welfare remains his sole focus when questioned on Dani Carvajal’s lack of minutes ahead of the World Cup.
Real Madrid shook off last week’s disappointment in Munich with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Alaves. Despite the win, the Santiago Bernabeu faithful made their frustrations known, with the squad seemingly destined for another season without silverware.
Speaking in the post-match press conference, Alvaro Arbeloa addressed the whistles from the stands. The manager asserted that his players are prepared to ‘die’ for the cause under the relentless demands of their home stadium, which, he stressed, always pushes them to deliver their absolute best.
“They whistled me because of the expectations they have, knowing what I can produce. What always satisfies me is turning those initial jeers into applause. He has done it many times, and for me, that is what truly matters,” he declared.
The focus then shifted to Carvajal and his limited playing time, a factor that could put his place in the World Cup squad at risk. Asked if he would actively help the full-back’s cause, the coach gave a blunt response: “I have 20-23 players. Any Real Madrid player has a chance to go to the World Cup. If you’ll permit me, I will prioritise what is best for my team.”
Returning to the subject of the crowd’s reaction, Arbeloa expressed his hope that Vinicius, who was subjected to whistles in the first half against Alaves, would remain with the ‘Blancos’ for the long haul. The Brazilian notably gestured an apology to the supporters after scoring.
“I am certain, and I sincerely hope, that Vinicius Junior wants to stay at Real Madrid for many years. I want him to remain here for a long time. That is what truly matters to me. I firmly believe he enjoys the affection of the Madridista faithful,” he stated.
“You cannot fault his attitude; he is always striving for more, always trying, and never hiding. He possesses immense courage. He is a true Madridista who bleeds for the crest, and it brings me great joy when the public ultimately rewards him with applause. I don’t believe this sentiment is widespread, nor that it occurs daily, nor that it is exclusively directed at Vinicius,” he added.
Addressing Jude Bellingham, who was substituted in the second half, Arbeloa explained that he withdrew the England midfielder as a precaution as he returns from injury, noting his importance for upcoming fixtures.
“I didn’t want to take any risks with Militao. I need him at his absolute peak for Friday’s match. He always has that winning mindset, and even in a game like this, he was eager to get more minutes under his belt. There is no need to overthink it; we will see him on the pitch next Friday,” he asserted regarding the Brazilian’s condition.
He also offered praise for Camavinga, another player who has come under fire recently: “He is back on the pitch, playing and helping the team. He possesses a big personality and considerable experience. Whenever I need him, he will step up. He has been crucial in recent months, getting valuable minutes. He arrived at Real Madrid at a very young age and has already secured many significant titles. He enjoys the confidence of not only his coach but also the club and the supporters.”
When asked about Real Madrid’s objectives for the remainder of the campaign, Arbeloa made it clear that the aim is to win all six remaining matches, stressing that every game carries weight at this club.
“As I always say, what is at stake for me personally means very little. What truly matters is what is at stake for Real Madrid, and we will go out to win all six of our remaining matches. My message is clear: we face high demands and carry a significant responsibility,” he affirmed.
“As long as it is mathematically possible, the Primera Division title race is, of course, still on. The day we lose the league and Barcelona are crowned champions, we will offer our congratulations. Until then, we will continue to battle. There is no doubt; this is what is demanded of us. As long as a chance exists, we must keep fighting,” he concluded.
