Alvaro Arbeloa Fires Explosive Response at Hansi Flick Amid Red-Hot La Liga Title Battle
Álvaro Arbeloa didn't hold back when responding to Hansi Flick's recent dig at Real Madrid, delivering a retort that echoed the German's memorable "ask Real Madrid" comment.
The Barcelona manager had used those three words as a sharp response when questioned about the Catalans' seemingly easy Copa del Rey path. The current Spanish title holders faced only lower-division opponents en route to the semifinals, but Flick quickly pointed out that such teams can be dangerous—just look at Los Blancos, who were knocked out by Segunda División side Albacete.
A day after that comment, Barcelona endured a crushing 4–0 loss to Atlético Madrid in the semifinal first leg, prompting Arbeloa to playfully respond to the heavy defeat: "I have no comments to make. Ask Barcelona and Flick."
This war of words represents another chapter in the intense rivalry between these clubs, with both managers appearing to embrace the tension as the La Liga championship battle intensifies.
Real Madrid Eager to Keep La Liga Winning Streak Alive
Real Madrid Eager to Keep La Liga Winning Streak Alive
Despite the 15-time European champions' humiliating Copa del Rey elimination and surprising 4–2 loss to Benfica in their final Champions League group stage match, they have discovered their rhythm in La Liga.
Real Madrid have compiled seven straight wins in Spain's premier division, stretching back to Xabi Alonso's time in December. This winning run has brought them to within one point of table-toppers Barcelona, a deficit that could disappear this Saturday.
Victory against a strong Real Sociedad squad, who defeated Barcelona just under a month ago, would place Los Blancos at the summit, two points clear of their eternal rivals. Flick's squad will get their opportunity to answer back on Monday versus Girona.
The 12th-positioned team shouldn't pose major problems for Barcelona, but the reigning Spanish champions are undoubtedly shaken following such a devastating loss on Thursday. Additionally, they're dealing with significant injuries to key players Raphinha, Marcus Rashford and Pedri.
Arbeloa Looks Back on First Month in Charge of Real Madrid
Arbeloa Looks Back on First Month in Charge of Real Madrid
The club's La Liga resurgence under Arbeloa stands as the highlight of the manager's initial period at the Bernabéu. Upon taking control, Real Madrid had secured only four victories in their previous eight league fixtures, appearing nearly eliminated from title contention before launching their current remarkable streak.
However, when pressed to evaluate his opening month leading the Spanish powerhouse, Arbeloa deflected the inquiry, declining to discuss his achievements or setbacks since taking on what might be football's most demanding position.
"I'm not here to conduct evaluations. I've already witnessed that the before and after hasn't even lasted a month for me, but I'm here extremely content, very relaxed, eating plenty just in case, and with tremendous energy to prepare for [Saturday's] game and everything that lies ahead," Arbeloa stated.
"I feel honored to occupy this position. It's an incredible blessing to be at Real Madrid, in whatever capacity. Clearly, coaching the world's finest team is both a privilege and good fortune that I'll savor until my final day."