Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa was filled with pride as Real Madrid beat Elche 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu.
This result not only strengthens the team’s momentum, but also shows the growing influence of several youth players in the team.
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Speaking to the media after the game, Arbeloa could not hide his satisfaction with the team’s performance and the participation of young players from the club’s renowned youth academy.
For a coach who had risen through the system himself, the night had deep emotional significance.
“It’s a proud day for someone like me who came through the youth system. It reminds me of Real Madrid in the ‘Quinta del Buitre’ era and I leave with this feeling.”
Arbeloa then emphasized the importance of victory itself.
“We faced a very difficult opponent who demands a lot from you and the way he plays makes it difficult. The players gave a huge effort. I’m very grateful to many of them for what they did.”
youth team revolution
One of the most exciting moments for Arbeloa was when several academy graduates stepped onto the pitch at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid’s night was one to watch. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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It obviously means a lot to him to see players he once coached make their debuts.
“For an academy player and a coach, after a night like tonight, I can die happy. Spent many years at the Academy with many of them.
“For Yanez and Aguado, who were the first players I coached when I was 13 or 14 years old, to make their debut at the Bernabeu today means something indescribable to me.”
The Bernabeu fans were also treated to a stunning goal from Arda Guler, which quickly became one of the biggest talking points of the night.
Arbeloa was as surprised as anyone watching the game.
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“We got to find a picture frame and hang it on the wall. It was unbelievable. It was awesome. I saw everyone putting their hands on their heads – and I did the same.
“It’s worth spending a ticket or two or three just to see what he does.”
About Valverde and Fran Garcia
Arbeloa also paid special tribute to Federico Valverde, whose influence within the team continues to grow.
The midfielder’s goal-scoring prowess makes him one of the most important figures in the team.
“Yeah, yeah, at this rate, he’s going to be the next Hugo Sanchez too. What he’s doing is absolutely crazy because he’s been given the freedom.
“It’s been a great experience living with him. Seeing him lead the team by example. Congratulations to him and keep it up.”
Arda Guler scored a memorable goal. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
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Another player who has received praise from the manager is Fran Garcia, who has quietly become an important part of the team in recent weeks.
“I can only thank him. It’s not easy to train like him and not show a grimace when you’re not playing. I wish there were 25 Fran Garcias in the team.”
Latest updates on injured players
Arbeloa also briefly touched on injury concerns ahead of the upcoming game against Manchester City. When asked about Raul Asensio, he gave a short answer:
“I have no idea.”
The manager was also asked about the status of star forward Kylian Mbappe ahead of the European showdown.
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“Tomorrow we will train; we will give Mbappe a trial and I will talk to him to see how he performs and how he feels. I hope he can play – that would be good news.”
About Brahim and Vinicius
Arbeloa also praised Brahim Diaz’s current form, stressing the importance of confidence for an attacking player.
“He’s happy. All players are happy when they play and perform like he does. He did well against Manchester City; we need him to help us.”
Finally, the head coach praised the efforts of Vinicius Jr., who did not score a goal in the game but worked tirelessly for the team.
“I appreciate the huge effort he has put in over the past two months. It takes a huge effort from him to play like he does.
“I want players to have that fighting spirit when things get tough. It’s time to rest – we’ll be back on the pitch on Tuesday.” he concluded.
Source:AS
