Friday 13/March/2026 – 09:14 PM
Alvaro Arbeloa, the club’s technical director, confirmed real madridHis team will face Elche tomorrow, Saturday, in the Spanish League with the slogan: There is no substitute for victory to continue the struggle for the title. Arbeloa stressed that he will not resort to a rotation policy, but rather will field the best possible formation to score the three points, stressing that the players must provide their maximum physical effort in every match.
In the press conference before the match, he singled out Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for historical praise, saying: “I have been with the best goalkeepers in history, but I have never seen a goalkeeper do what Courtois does. He is without a doubt the best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid for me.”
Latest update on Kylian Mbappe’s injury
Arbeloa revealed the developments in the condition of French star Kylian Mbappe, stressing that the player is improving day after day and is proceeding according to the qualifying program specified for him. The coach explained that Mbappe will not participate in the Elche match tomorrow, but he stressed his confidence in his readiness to travel with the team to England to face Manchester City in the Champions League, indicating that the final decision will be made on Sunday.
Dealing with the pressure of matches and criticism
Arbeloa responded to the doubts about the physical condition of the players, explaining that the data confirms that the team ran with a high intensity that is commensurate with the quality and mentality of Real Madrid. Regarding the criticism he is exposed to, he said: “I am not overwhelmed with praise and I know that any stumble will raise doubts. This is normal in this position and the expectations here are always high. Even those who won the champions were subjected to criticism.” He also praised the role of the physical trainer Antonio Pintos, describing him as an exceptional professional.
Praise for young talents: Manuel Angel and Thiago
The Real Madrid coach expressed his great admiration for the young player Manuel Angel, stressing that he has a big heart and technical skills that qualify him to be an elite player despite his short stature. He also praised Thiago Pitarch, noting that he seizes opportunities and performs wonderfully, and called on all young players to continue to work humbly to maintain their place in the first team.
