Is there a rift at Real Madrid? Arbeloa’s cryptic message to the players

06.03.26 FT LaLiga Spain

Celta Vigo

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Real Madrid

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Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa sparked debate after hinting at dissatisfaction with some players following the 2-1 win over Celta Vigo.

Arbeloa’s comment raises questions

Real Madrid head coach Alvaro Arbeloa surprised many after his team’s 2-1 victory over Celta Vigo in La Liga on Friday. Speaking after the match, Arbeloa said:

“I’m very happy with the people who wanted to come”

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, the statement was seen as clear message inside the dressing room even though the coach did not mention any specific players.

His comment came after Madrid played the match with 10 absence including seven injury and three suspensions forcing the team to rely on several young players.

Despite the difficult situation, Madrid managed to secure the win which made Arbeloa’s remarks even more notable.

Camavinga situation draws attention

One of the players at the center of the discussion Eduardo Camavinga. The midfielder missed the last two match because of a dental problem caused by tooth decay.

Although Camavinga returned to training before the game, he was still left out of the squad. The situation raised questions as the issue had not been solved even after a week.

Spanish reports suggest Arbeloa’s comment may have been linked to this situation as the coach stressed the importance of commitment during a demanding period for the team.

Suspended players also in focus

Marca also indicated that Arbeloa’s message could have been aimed at players who were suspended in the previous match including Franco Mastantuono, Dean Huijsen and Miguel Carreras.

Officials at Valdebebas, Real Madrid’s training complex, reportedly described the actions that led to those suspensions as “avoidable mistakes”.

The coach’s words may have been intended to remind the squad of the importance of discipline.

Praise for players who stepped up

While Arbeloa criticized some situations, he also praised players who traveled to Vigo despite physical problems. Raul Asencio & Dani Carvajal were mentioned as examples of commitment as they supported the team during a difficult moment even without starting the match.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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