Elche boss reflects on Real Madrid defeat and Guler’s wonder goal: ‘It’s a perfect strike’ | OneFootball

Elche manager Eder Sarabia admitted it was a difficult night for his team after they suffered a 4-1 defeat against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Following the match, Sarabia faced the media and spoke honestly about the challenge of competing against a team with the quality and depth of Real Madrid. 

Despite the result, the Elche coach acknowledged the level of performance required to compete at the top level of modern football.

“I understand that Real Madrid faces immense pressure, but football is becoming more and more competitive, and anyone can beat you. 

“It’s not easy to maintain that level of play over nearly 70 games, but Real Madrid has the ability to put on a performance like the one they did against City. 

“Arbeloa is showing the courage to give those young players a chance. We’ve been lacking a bit more aggressiveness,” he analysed.

On Guler’s goal

Another moment that stood out during the match was the spectacular goal scored by Arda Guler. 

The young midfielder produced a stunning strike that left everyone amazed.

Sarabia admitted that although the goal was frustrating from Elche’s perspective, it was also one of those moments in football where you simply have to admire the quality of the player.

“I think Arda is a phenomenal player. We’re having bad luck because we’re conceding spectacular goals. 

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

“We’re at that point where those little details, which went our way in the first half of the season, are now going against us. 

“Amid that frustration and sadness, as a fan, all you can do is tip your hat because it’s a perfect strike.”

Alonso vs Arbeloa

The Elche coach was also asked to compare Real Madrid’s current performances with the earlier period under former coach Xabi Alonso. 

Sarabia admitted that circumstances have changed and that his team currently lacks the same freshness they previously had.

“What a mess you’re getting yourself into. Xabi set us up very well. It was a great game of football, but we had that extra edge.

“We were at home, playing with confidence. Now we don’t have that freshness.”

Finally, Sarabia revealed that he shares a respectful relationship with Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa. 

The two coaches recently crossed paths in Madrid and exchanged good wishes before their teams met on the pitch.

“I ran into him at a restaurant in Madrid, and I think he is a coach who’s always spoken highly of me. 

“We wished each other luck, and I congratulated him on the game the other day. We have a cordial relationship, as well as a lot of respect for each other,” he concluded.

Source: AS