Alvaro Arbeloa has defended his Real Madrid squad following a turbulent week at the club, dismissing media reports as "lies" while acknowledging internal frustrations. The manager faced the press ahead of Sunday's El Clasico against Barcelona, just days after Federico Valverde suffered a traumatic brain injury during a training ground altercation with Aurelien Tchouameni.
Arbeloa took full responsibility for Madrid's underwhelming campaign, which has seen the club endure two seasons without a trophy. "I am responsible for everything that happens at Real Madrid," he told journalists. "The season probably won't be up to par, but I've been here four months and I'm very proud of my players." The manager emphasized that both Valverde and Tchouameni deserve a chance to continue fighting for the badge, refusing to "publicly crucify" them despite the incident.
Dressing Room Remains "Healthy," Says Arbeloa
Despite external perceptions of chaos—amplified by reports of Kylian Mbappe's training ground tensions—Arbeloa insists the squad environment remains intact. "Of course it's a healthy dressing room," he stated. "It's not easy to accept two seasons without a trophy, and to be a Real Madrid player you have to be very ambitious." He acknowledged that frustration and anger can lead to unwanted situations, but framed the current moment as a learning experience for a younger squad preparing for next season.
The most damaging aspect of recent events, according to Arbeloa, stems from internal leaks to the media. He described whoever disclosed details of dressing room incidents as having "betrayed" the club and what the Madrid crest represents. "What happens in the Real Madrid dressing room should stay there," Arbeloa emphasized. "If things are leaked, I think it's a betrayal of Real Madrid."
Media Scrutiny and Transfer Pressure
Arbeloa rejected accusations that he lacks professionalism or has created divisions within the squad. He defended players against claims that some are excluded due to personal conflicts with him, calling such narratives "absolutely false." The manager's position comes amid mounting pressure, with speculation suggesting he could be replaced by Jose Mourinho during the summer transfer window. With the Barcelona clash looming, Madrid's focus now turns to salvaging a disappointing campaign and regaining momentum in La Liga competition.
