Alerta em Madrid: Arbeloa launches barbs at Mbappé and the Real squad – “I want players who want to be at Real every day”
Former Real Madrid player Álvaro Arbeloa did not hold back this morning, taking aim at the motivation of Kylian Mbappé and the entire Madrid team, questioning the mentality of the club’s players who, according to him, save their best performances for the grand stages of the Champions League while failing in everyday matches.
The French star shone again against Bayern Munich last week, showcasing high-level football after a period marked by injuries and lackluster performances. However, despite his evident talent, Mbappé was thwarted by Bayern’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who delivered an eye-catching performance, securing a 2-1 advantage for the Germans in the first leg. This performance sharply contrasted with Real Madrid’s disastrous game on Saturday against Real Mallorca, where the team suffered a defeat that seriously undermined their title aspirations and left them seven points behind leaders Barcelona.
The former Spanish international did not hold back his criticism: “It’s not just about Mbappé; I want players who want to be Real Madrid players every day. It matters to want to be yourself beyond talent and quality. We cannot play every day as if it were a Champions League quarter-final with immense motivation; that’s where self-demand is born. That goes beyond the talent he has. We want them to feel that tomorrow, when they play against Girona, they need to shine. We need that. They should be themselves every day and be willing to give their best. It’s not easy, but we need that. Their motivation should be to give their best.”
In response to a question about whether he felt some players lacked sufficient desire, Arbeloa slightly backtracked, but maintained his criticism: “No, not at all. It’s important to want to step onto the pitch with a great attitude and a huge commitment. The talent is there, and it’s wonderful. But to win games, talent alone is not enough. Occasionally, yes, but if we want to be consistent, we need more than just talent.”
This warning comes at a critical moment for Real Madrid, which has suffered consecutive defeats in La Liga, with losses to Osasuna, Getafe, and now Mallorca undermining confidence and leaving the season on the brink of disaster, with no trophies in sight.
As for the next challenge, Arbeloa assured that the squad is hungry for redemption: “They are the first to want to play, more than I do. Any Madrid player, when they don’t win, wants to play the next day. I’ve spoken to them, and they are available, eager to deliver a great game for the fans and for ourselves.”
At the press conference, Arbeloa also revealed that Jude Bellingham and Éder Militão will be part of the starting eleven for the upcoming clash against Girona. The Brazilian received high praise: “When he is fit, he is probably the best center-back in the world. Physically, he is a dominant player, in individual duels, he covers a lot of ground in open space, has an impressive aerial game, and excellent passing quality. His mentality, character, and commanding voice are fundamental. His importance to the group is undeniable. It is a privilege to have a player like him.”
The alert has been sounded: Real Madrid needs to rediscover its grit and daily motivation to avoid seeing the season consumed by failure. And Arbeloa has no doubts – only those who want to be part of Real every day can ensure success at a club of this magnitude. The clock is ticking for Mbappé and company to prove they truly deserve to wear the white jersey.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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