Real made a statement this week and is now hoping for better times ahead. But on Saturday, they face another tough challenge.
“Villarreal are a strong opponent who will demand everything from us – and that motivates us immensely,” said Real coach Alvaro Arbeloa at Friday’s press conference ahead of the top match. “We are aware of the big challenge that awaits us tomorrow. It is one of the most difficult away games in the league. We have to play at our absolute best if we want the three points.“
The ”Yellow Submarine” is in fourth place in the table, seven points behind the Royals with one game in hand. At home, Villarreal has lost only one of its last ten games (eight wins, one draw), which supports the Royals’ coach’s theory.
However, Real are traveling with renewed confidence after a difficult few weeks, including the departure of coach Xabi Alonso. During the week, the Royals thrashed Monaco 6-1 in the Champions League, thanks in part to an outstanding performance by Vinicius Junior. The Bernabeu, which had been booing loudly just days earlier, was appeased for the moment.
Arbeloa: “We have a fantastic youth academy.”
“I believe and hope that Monaco will be a turning point,” said Arbeloa, adding: “We have a lot of work ahead of us, but from day one I have seen a team that is ready to work hard. I can’t talk about changes or whether the players are happier or unhappier than before. They are ready to work and improve. They welcomed me with open arms.”
The coach is currently facing a difficult situation, with the Royals plagued by major injury concerns in defense. Against Monaco, the fullbacks were Fede Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga, both of whom are actually midfielders. However, the new Real coach has no intention of complaining or even demanding reinforcements. “I’ll say it again: I have an exceptional squad that I’m very happy with,” Arbeloa makes clear, adding resolutely: “And if we ever need reinforcements, we have a fantastic youth academy.”