Key Takeaways:
- Alvaro Arbeloa responded to Hansi Flick’s remarks following Barcelona’s 4-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid
- Dani Carvajal and Arbeloa addressed concerns regarding playing time during a training session on Tuesday
- Real Madrid will face Real Sociedad this weekend with a shot at climbing to the top of La Liga before Barcelona’s next match
Managerial Reactions After Barcelona’s Defeat
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa directly responded to his Barcelona counterpart, Hansi Flick, in the wake of the Blaugrana’s 4-0 loss to Atletico Madrid. Flick had previously been questioned about the perceived ease of Barcelona’s path in the competition, as the team had faced only lower-division opponents, including Albacete, who had eliminated Real Madrid. In response to this, Flick commented, ‘Ask Real Madrid’.
Flick later clarified that his remarks were intended to highlight the quality and deserving nature of Segunda and Primera RFEF sides, rather than taking aim at Real Madrid. Nonetheless, Arbeloa acknowledged Flick’s comments when asked about Atletico’s emphatic win over Barcelona, replying: “I have nothing to comment. Ask Flick’s Barca,” with a stern expression.
🚨 Álvaro Arbeloa: “Barcelona’s 4-0 loss? ASK FLICK’S BARCELONA.” pic.twitter.com/UOV3opkEQo
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) February 13, 2026
Carvajal’s Playing Time and Team-First Ethos
Another significant talking point at Real Madrid centred around Dani Carvajal’s reported dissatisfaction with his limited minutes on the pitch. Arbeloa and Carvajal are understood to have discussed the matter during Tuesday’s training session, leading to a positive resolution. Arbeloa emphasised that the interests of the team would always take precedence, stating:
“It’s common for a player to be unhappy if they don’t play as much as they want. Everyone wants to feel important. If they’ve come to Real Madrid, it’s because they’ve been important, and that’s key. I encourage everyone to work hard, and if you’re not happy, you can sit on the bench. But the team should always come before the individual.”
Regarding Carvajal’s progress, Arbeloa added:
“As with everyone, I like to talk to them. We sit down, we talk; I like to know what they think. He’s getting better all the time. He’s had another week of training… and the person most interested in seeing him at his best is me. Obviously.”
Arbeloa’s Relationship-Centred Management Approach
While Arbeloa refrained from detailing his tactical preferences, he did outline his collaborative approach with players, prioritising strong relationships for improved performance. He stated:
“I’ve had a lot of it. Because that’s what I enjoy. It’s my way of working and how I understand my role. When I was a player, I liked having that relationship with the coach. And now that I’m in this position, I try to talk to everyone about everything, although obviously, mostly about football.”
“But it’s always an open door for everyone. They know where I am. Sometimes they come to me, other times I call them. And that’s what really matters to me, more than any leaks that might come from different quarters. I’m focused on having a good relationship with all my players, and the closer the better.”
Team Morale Ahead of Real Sociedad Clash
Earlier in the week, the Real Madrid players organised a team dinner to boost squad morale. Arbeloa endorsed such initiatives, mentioning that Raul Asencio did not arrive home until 3am:
“I always think it’s great when they get together. I’m delighted by things like that. I enjoyed them a lot when I was younger…”
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will compete against Real Sociedad this weekend. The fixture offers Arbeloa’s side an opportunity to reach the top of La Liga before Barcelona’s upcoming match on Monday night. Real Sociedad, led by Pellegrino Matarazzo, are currently the league’s in-form side with seven wins from their first nine matches in 2026.
