Álvaro Arbeloa, más frío que nunca con Dani Carvajal: “Yo pienso en lo mejor para el equipo”
Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa addressed the media following his team’s 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. The victory marked a return to winning ways for Los Blancos after a difficult run of form, with goals from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior securing the three points.
During the press conference, Arbeloa fielded questions regarding veteran right-back Dani Carvajal and his prospects for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The manager’s response was direct and devoid of emotion, emphasizing his commitment to team interests over individual aspirations.
“I have 23 players in the squad and any player from Real Madrid has options to go to the World Cup. I am going to think about what is best for my team,” Arbeloa stated when questioned about Carvajal’s World Cup hopes.
The manager’s comments highlighted the growing distance between him and the 33-year-old captain, who has endured a challenging season marked by limited playing time and uncertainty about his future at the club. Carvajal, whose contract expires at the end of the season, has not featured prominently in recent matches, including the Alaves fixture where he was not named in the starting lineup.
Arbeloa’s preference for Trent Alexander-Arnold in the right-back position has become increasingly evident, with the Liverpool loanee receiving preference in selection decisions. This has occurred despite Carvajal’s status as a club legend and his desire to secure a place in Spain’s World Cup squad.
The manager further clarified his stance when questioned about his own future, stating that his priority lies with what Real Madrid is playing for, not what he personally stands to gain in the remaining six matches of the season. This same logic, he indicated, applies to all players, including Carvajal.
Arbeloa also addressed other topics during the press conference, providing updates on several key players:
Regarding Jude Bellingham’s substitution, Arbeloa explained that the decision was precautionary due to the midfielder’s recent injury and an upcoming fixture. “He comes from where he comes with the injury and Friday there is another match. As with Militao, we don’t want to take risks. He wanted to retain helping and that I like. We don’t have to give it more importance and we will see him again on the field,” the manager said.
On Eduardo Camavinga’s return to the lineup following his suspension, Arbeloa expressed continued confidence in the French midfielder. “He has returned to play and to help his team. Whenever I need him, he will go onto the field. Just like Vinicius, they are guys who arrived incredibly young and have won many important titles. Camavinga has the coach’s confidence and everyone’s confidence,” Arbeloa stated.
Vinicius Junior’s performance was also discussed, particularly after he converted the boos from the Bernabéu crowd into applause through his decisive contribution to the victory. Arbeloa defended the Brazilian winger, noting his consistent effort for the team. “This proves not the first time that happens to us. Vinicius always makes a great effort by putting the team on his back. He does not hide, he is a great Madridista, he feels the badge and has a lot of courage. I am glad that the public has rewarded him with applause. Whether he will renew? That is not a question for me, but I hope he stays many more years,” the manager commented.
Regarding the ongoing debate about fan expectations at the Santiago Bernabeu, Arbeloa downplayed the significance of isolated incidents. “I do not think it is generalized, nor does it happen every day. We will die with this debate about the demand of this stadium. What pleases me is that Vinicius has changed the boos into applause. For me, that is important,” he added.
Despite acknowledging that La Liga title hopes are slim, Arbeloa maintained a competitive outlook for the remainder of the season. “La Liga is almost lost, but we will keep fighting as long as it is possible. I hope it is not too short or too long. The goal we have set as a group is to win all the remaining matches. We have to be able to fight each match regardless of who the opponent is. We have to be able to demand more from ourselves and we have to win the six matches that remain,” he stated.
The victory over Alaves moved Real Madrid to within six points of Barcelona in the La Liga standings, though they have played one more game than the Catalan giants. With six matches left in the season, the team’s immediate focus shifts to their next fixture as they look to build on this positive result.
What are your thoughts on Arbeloa’s handling of the Carvajal situation and Real Madrid’s prospects for the remainder of the season? Share your views in the comments below.
