‘Hard times don’t last, but strong people do’ – Arbeloa receives touching reaction from Real Madrid squad | OneFootball

Sunday’s clash against Athletic Club was about far more than just another fixture for Real Madrid. 

It became a night filled with farewells, emotions and visible signs of how difficult the season had truly been behind closed doors.

The Bernabeu said goodbye to two long-serving figures in David Alaba and Dani Carvajal, both of whom brought years of success and unforgettable moments to the club.

Vinicius Jr.’s message to Arbeloa. (Source: Instagram)

But another departure attracted enormous attention within the dressing room – that of Alvaro Arbeloa.

After spending close to six months working alongside the first team during one of the club’s most unstable periods in recent years, Arbeloa stepped away from the bench. 

What followed afterwards on social media revealed just how respected he had become within the squad.

Deep respect for Arbeloa

Guler wished Arbeloa luck for the future. (Source: Instagram)

Several senior players publicly thanked him, but it was the tone and emotion behind the messages that truly stood out.

One of the first players to react was Antonio Rudiger, who posted a brief but meaningful message:

“Thanks for the support. All the best to you and your family.”

Arbeloa’s response to the German defender was equally personal, referring to him as “My warrior”.

Furthermore, Brahim Diaz also expressed gratitude towards the departing coach, to which Arbeloa answered warmly.

Thiago Pitarch gained prominence under Arbeloa. (Source: Instagram)

“It has been a tremendous privilege for us all to have been able to enjoy a player and a person like you.”

Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham kept his message simple but respectful – “Thank you, coach.”

Arbeloa responded with one of the strongest descriptions given to any player, writing, 

“A born leader. An exceptional professional. A world-class footballer. And a wonderful person.”

The emotional exchanges continued with Vinicius Junior, who thanked Arbeloa for the trust and affection shown towards him throughout the season.

Huijsen was also grateful to Arbeloa. (Source: Instagram)

“For your commitment, your effort, your talent and your courage. Never change. It has been an honour to be your coach,” replied Arbeloa.

Perhaps the most striking interaction came with Kylian Mbappe.

The French superstar simply wished Arbeloa the very best for the future, but the response he received caught attention across Madrid circles.

“Hard times don’t last forever, but strong people do.”

Furthermore, messages from the likes of Andriy Lunin, Thiago Pitarch, Arda Guler, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia, Gonzalo Garcia and Aurelien Tchouameni followed and Arbeloa responded to all.