Álvaro Arbeloa, coach of Real Madrid, previewed the upcoming match against Real Sociedad, scheduled for Saturday, as part of the 24th round of La Liga. The reception of the Basques, featuring Gonçalo Guedes, precedes the trip to Luz to face Benfica in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff. Kylian Mbappé, who missed training sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, has returned to practice and is an option for Arbeloa. "Mbappé trained well with the group and is available. Real Sociedad? They are unbeaten since the arrival of the new coach and have played against Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. We are aware that we need to be at our best level," he said at a press conference, admitting that the agreement between Real Madrid and UEFA and the consequent end of the Super League is "very good for football." Arbeloa also dismissed any controversy with Carvajal, who, according to the Spanish press, is unhappy with his limited playing time and may leave at the end of the season for free. "I see Carvajal like all his teammates. I like to talk to him and take the opportunity to talk to everyone. I like to know how they feel and think. Criticism? I am new in this position, but not at Real Madrid. Few things surprise me," he stated, discussing the team's dinner: "I like to see them together. It's one of the things I highlighted the most. I am very happy that they have time to have fun. We had a great training session on Tuesday. After that, I am glad they have been together. I miss that since the time I was a player." When asked to assess the situation and about alleged fatigue since taking over from Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa replied: "I am not here to make assessments. I am eating well and have energy. It is a privilege to be in this position, and I will enjoy it until the last day." Finally, Arbeloa was confronted about the thrashing by Atlético Madrid against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey: "I have nothing to comment. Ask Barcelona about Flick."
Benfica Arbeloa Gives Updates remains central to this story.
Benfica Arbeloa Gives Updates remains central to this story.
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