Alvaro Arbeloa faces his fourth game as Real Madrid coach. He will do so with Rodrygo in the squad and with the need to pick up another away win against Villarreal. In the preview, the coach spoke to the media in a press conference
Match at La Ceramica
“Villarreal is a great opponent, which is going to demand a lot from us, our highest level and it motivates us a lot. We are aware of the great game we have to play tomorrow to take the three points. The game is very important because of what it means, because of the opponent we have in front of us and because of the three points, which would give us a lot of confidence. It is one of the most difficult away games in La Liga. We have to give our best and a great level if we want the three points. That is what we are focused on and working on these days.”
Player preferences
“I’m delighted with the willingness of all the players to help the team and put the team above the individual. They have shown me that from day one. Both Camavinga and Valverde played a great game against Monaco. They had a sensational performance. I want to see players who are involved, who want to help, who are at the disposal of their coach. They are versatile players, with tremendous abilities and a lot of talent to play in different positions on the field.”
Do you think there are any outstanding accounts against you?
“It was the first time I went to the stadium as a coach. I had never been there before. When you see all the European Cups, you feel all the history of Real Madrid, what this club means. Ancelotti when he was at the stadium published a photo in the same place. If someone like Ancelotti does it, how can I not stop to see the history of Madrid. Regarding the criticism, I am very calm and focused on getting the best out of the players.”
Vinicius renewal
“That’s not up to me. It’s up to Vinicius and the club. My wish is that he continues to make history at Real Madrid.”
Happiness and unity
“I am talking about the 10 days I have been here, that’s what I have to talk about. I believe and hope that the Monaco game will be a turning point. We have a lot to work on, but from day one I have seen a group willing to work. I try to help the players, I can’t talk about change or players being more or less happy than before. They are willing to work and improve. They have welcomed me with open arms. I can’t comment on anything else.”
Turning point
“I hope the game against Monaco will be the turning point we need. It was our moment, to take a step forward, to bring joy… It is very important to achieve our goals.”
Winter market
“I repeat it again. I have an extraordinary squad with which I am very happy. If we ever need anything, we have a great youth academy.”
Mourinho quote
“You know what he means to me. When a coach like him speaks, I always try to listen.”
Bellingham
“I have to talk about what I have experienced. The matches with him, even in the sessions, he has shown me his ability, his technique, his leadership and his character. Against Monaco, the effort he made was tremendous, he has a winning mentality, he has everything that a Madrid player needs. I’m delighted with him.”
Rodrygo and the idea of football
“Rodrygo is going to be in the squad. Winning is the most important thing, regardless of systems. I want to see the character and mentality of the other day. It represents very well what Madrid is. To fight and to go all together. Those values are ours, we must never abandon them.”
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