Real Madrid News
Arbeloa talks Valverde, Vinicius, Carvajal, Mbappe, Bellingham, Militao after Real Madrid 3-2 Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid once again proved why they remain one of the most mentally strong sides in Europe, grinding out a dramatic 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
In a game filled with tension, controversy, and moments of individual brilliance, Los Blancos had to dig deep, especially after being reduced to 10 men.
Speaking after the match, manager Alvaro Arbeloa highlighted not just the result but the mentality his side showed under pressure.
“I’m happy with the win. It wasn’t an easy game. Atletico is a great team that made things very difficult for us. Beyond the football, I liked the team’s mentality,” he began.
Valverde’s sending off
A major turning point in the match came when Federico Valverde was sent off, a decision that sparked debate.
Arbeloa addressed the incident, explaining how he viewed the situation differently from the referee. He stated,
“We showed character and mental strength. We had to fight hard while down a man.
“I see it differently, but I’m grateful to Jose Luis (Munuera Montero) for coming over to explain why he sent him off.
“We were able to take home the three points, which is what we wanted.”
He went into more detail about the referee’s explanation, making it clear he disagreed with the call.
“He told me it was excessive force, and I don’t see it that way. There was no chance of hurting or injuring the opponent.
“That’s my view, which differs from his. But he came to explain it, and I appreciate that.”
On Vinicius and Mbappe
While controversy dominated part of the story, Vinicius Jr.’s performance stole the spotlight.
The Brazilian forward delivered a match-winning display with two crucial goals, continuing his outstanding form.
Arbeloa did not hold back in his praise, emphasising both his talent and mentality. He remarked,
“Another great game. Another display of talent, courage, and fearlessness. Of making mistakes and trying again. As I always say, we’re incredibly lucky to have him.
“For his commitment, his talent, his desire to carry the team. I don’t know if this is the best moment of his career, but it’s certainly close.”
There was also significant interest around Kylian Mbappe, who returned to action but only featured in the second half.
Arbeloa clarified that the Frenchman is still regaining full fitness after a spell out. Addressing his condition and gradual reintegration, he explained,
“When you have the best in the world, you have to take advantage of it.
“After three weeks, almost a month, it’s normal to be progressing, which is what I like.
“Kylian had some good minutes. He was a constant threat. With his national team, he’ll get more playing time and come back better prepared.”
On Carvajal and Bellingham
Team selection also raised eyebrows, particularly the decision to start Dani Carvajal ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Arbeloa made it clear that competition within the squad is exactly what he wants.
“I pick the best starting XI for every game, and I think Carvajal had some very good minutes; he was all over Lookman.
“I’m happy with him and with how Trent has come along. I’m happy to have so many options. And that everyone contributes as they did today.”
With stars like Jude Bellingham and Mbappe available, squad management becomes a challenge, but one Arbeloa welcomes. Sharing his philosophy on competition, he stated,
“That’s my main goal as a coach: to be unfair to as many players as possible. To feel that, when I pick the starting XI, I’m being unfair to many of them.
“That’s my goal: to feel like I have 25 players and they can all play. Hopefully one day I’ll achieve that.”
On Bellingham’s role specifically, Arbeloa admitted that his versatility creates a unique dilemma. Offering insight into his plans, he said,
“We’ll see in the coming matches. He’s coming back after quite a long layoff, and I’d love for his progression to be gradual, like Mbappe’s.
“I’ll have to find the right spot for him, surround him with players he has a good rapport with.
“The problem with Bellingham is that he’s very good at doing a lot of things. When you’re that good at so many things, you have to make choices.”
Finally, there was positive news on the injury front, with Eder Militao set to return soon. Providing a brief update, Arbeloa concluded, “Militao will be available for Mallorca.”
Source: AS
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
