Arbeloa talks Valverde, Vinicius, Pitarch, Mendy, Courtois after Real Madrid 3-0 Manchester City | OneFootball

It was a special night at the Santiago Bernabeu for Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who enjoyed one of the most memorable victories of his early tenure on the biggest stage in European football.

Real Madrid produced a dominant display in the UEFA Champions League, beating Manchester City 3-0 in front of a roaring home crowd. 

The night belonged to Federico Valverde, whose stunning hat trick decided the contest and gave the Spanish giants a huge advantage.

Speaking after the match, Arbeloa admitted the result meant a lot to the team after some doubts had surrounded them before the game.

The Real Madrid coach highlighted the collective effort shown by his players throughout the match.

“They’ve worked very hard for this result.

“I’m very happy with what we’ve achieved. They deserve it, they’ve suffered,” said the Real Madrid coach.

Arbeloa also addressed the doubts that had surrounded the team ahead of the tie and explained how the players responded with character and belief.

“It’s clear that the feelings we were getting from outside weren’t very confident. We’ve shown that we are Real Madrid and we must never be counted out.”

Valverde the hero of the night

Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

While the team’s performance impressed, the spotlight naturally fell on Valverde. 

The Uruguayan midfielder was deployed in a more advanced role against Manchester City and delivered a sensational performance.

Arbeloa was full of praise for the midfielder and revealed how highly he rates the player.

“It doesn’t matter where you put him. I almost get tired of talking to him.”

The manager then made a striking comparison to underline what Valverde represents for the club.

“He’s the Juanito of the 21st century. Everything a Real Madrid player dreams of being is Fede Valverde. He deserves a night like this,” said Arbeloa.

Bernabeu support for Vinicius

Another moment that stood out during the game was the reaction of the Bernabeu crowd towards Vinicius Jr.

Despite missing a penalty during the match, the Brazilian forward received strong support from the fans inside the stadium.

Arbeloa appreciated the gesture from the supporters and praised the atmosphere created by the crowd.

“I really liked how the Bernabeu gave Vincius a standing ovation,“ even though he missed a penalty. ”If there’s anyone who knows how to bounce back, it’s him.”

When asked about the penalty order, Arbeloa made it clear that the responsibility still belongs to Vinicius.

“Vini is the penalty taker and I’m very happy with how the Bernabéu reacted and how they applauded him.”

Injury concern for Ferland Mendy

The victory did come with a concern, however, as Ferland Mendy picked up an injury during the match.

Arbeloa admitted the situation does not look very encouraging and explained that the club had already taken a risk by playing the defender after a long absence.

“He’s injured, yes. It doesn’t look good. I appreciate his effort. We took a risk by playing him in two consecutive games after such a long layoff. 

“I took the risk and I thank him for it. It’s wonderful to be able to coach him.

“It’s too early to say, but it’s unlikely he’ll be fit for Tuesday. 

“I’d like to thank Ferland because we took a risk, but he’s an exceptional player and he’s shown his ability as a footballer and the level he’s at.”

Praise for Pitarch and Courtois

Courtois made stunning saves against City. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Arbeloa also spoke about young prospect Thiago Pitarch, who impressed despite the pressure of playing such a big Champions League match at a young age.

The coach acknowledged that selecting such a young player in a knockout game might raise questions but praised the teenager’s attitude and commitment.

“I understand that putting an 18-year-old in a knockout game like this can raise doubts, but the effort he puts in, the commitment. The fans gave him a well-deserved ovation.”

Finally, Arbeloa reserved special praise for goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, whose saves once again proved crucial for Real Madrid.

“I never like these comparisons, but I don’t know if I’ve ever seen anything like Courtois. It’s like an extra ball you get in every game. We’re incredibly lucky to have him in goal. 

“With him, we know that our opponents will have to do a lot of things right and make almost impossible shots to score a goal,” he concluded.

Source: AS