Arbeloa talks Guler, Valverde, Mbappe, Asencio, Vinicius, Brahim after Real Madrid 4-1 Elche | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa was full of pride after his side delivered an impressive 4-1 victory over Elche at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

The result not only strengthened the team’s momentum but also showed the growing influence of several academy players within the squad.

Speaking to the media after the match, Arbeloa could not hide his satisfaction with the performance and the involvement of young players from the club’s famous academy. 

For a coach who himself rose through the system, the night carried deep emotional meaning.

“For someone who came up through the youth system like me, it’s a proud day. It reminds me of the Real Madrid of the ‘Quinta del Buitre’ era, and I’m leaving with that feeling.”

Arbeloa then emphasised the importance of the victory itself. 

“We faced a very tough opponent, one that demands a lot from you and plays in a way that makes things difficult. The players put in an enormous effort. I’m very grateful for what many of them are doing.”

Youth team revolution

One of the most emotional moments for Arbeloa came when several academy graduates stepped onto the pitch at the Bernabeu. 

Night to behold for Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Seeing players he once coached make their debut clearly meant a lot to him.

“I can die happy after a night like tonight, for a youth academy player and a coach who has spent many years in the academy, alongside so many of them. 

“For Yanez and Aguado, who were the first players I coached when they were 13 or 14, to be able to give them their debut at the Bernabéu today means something indescribable to me.”

The Bernabeu crowd was also treated to a stunning goal from Arda Guler, which quickly became one of the biggest talking points of the night. 

Arbeloa was just as amazed as everyone else watching the match.

“We need to get a frame and put it on the wall. It’s unbelievable. Wonderful. I saw everyone put their hands to their heads—I did too. 

“It was worth paying for a ticket, or two or three, just to see what he did.”

On Valverde and Fran Garcia

Arbeloa also reserved special praise for Federico Valverde, whose influence continues to grow within the team. 

The midfielder’s goal-scoring ability has made him one of the most important figures in the squad.

“Yeah, yeah, at this rate, he’s going to be the next Hugo Sanchez too. It’s absolutely crazy what he’s doing, with the freedom he’s been given. 

“It’s been a great experience living day-to-day with him. Seeing him lead the group by example. Congratulations to him, and keep it up.”

Arda Guler scored a memorable goal. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Another player who received praise from the manager was Fran Garcia, who has quietly become an important part of the team in recent weeks.

“I can only thank him. When you’re not playing, it’s not easy to train the way he does, without ever showing a sour face. I wish there were 25 Fran Garcías on the team.”

Update on injured players

Arbeloa also briefly addressed injury concerns ahead of the upcoming clash with Manchester City. When asked about Raul Asencio, he gave a short response:

“I don’t know.”

The manager was also asked about the condition of star forward Kylian Mbappe ahead of the European showdown.

“We’ll have training tomorrow; we’ll give Mbappe a tryout, and I’ll talk to him to see how he’s doing and how he’s feeling. I hope he’ll be available—that would be great news.”

On Brahim and Vinicius

Arbeloa also praised Brahim Diaz for his current form, highlighting the importance of confidence for attacking players.

“He’s happy. All players are happy when they play and perform as well as he does. He had a sensational game against City; we need him to help us.”

Finally, the manager addressed the effort shown by Vinicius Jr., who did not score in the match but worked tirelessly for the team.

“I thanked him for the tremendous effort he’s put in and has been putting in over the past two months. Playing as much as he is requires a huge effort on his part.

“I want players with that kind of fighting spirit when things get tough. Time to rest up—we’ll be back on the field Tuesday,” he concluded.

Source: AS