Álvaro Arbeloa sent a clear message to his squad after Real Madrid's 2-0 victory over Espanyol on Saturday. The club's values matter more than any single player, he insisted.
His comments came amid ongoing debate about Kylian Mbappé's travels to Italy while recovering from a thigh injury. Arbeloa defended the forward's right to personal time away from the pitch.
"Mbappé can do what he wants in his free time, like any other player," Arbeloa told reporters. "But Real Madrid is bigger than any individual."
He emphasized that Madrid's medical team maintains full control of recovery protocols. No internal problems exist, according to him.
Vinícius Júnior stole the show at RCDE Stadium with two second-half goals. His brace in the 55th and 66th minutes secured victory and kept Madrid's title hopes alive.
Arbeloa praised the winger's performance and leadership on the field. He noted that Vinícius's substitution was purely precautionary ahead of next week's Clásico.
Madrid remains in contention despite sitting 11 points behind Barcelona with four matches left to play. The gap could narrow significantly depending on upcoming results.
Barcelona's title celebrations have been delayed for now. Everything hinges on the crucial clash at Camp Nou on May 10.
"Real Madrid was built on talent and hard work," Arbeloa stated. "I want the players to understand that no one is above the institution."
He dismissed suggestions of dressing-room friction or discord. Instead, he used the moment to reinforce discipline and collective responsibility throughout the squad.
