Real Madrid’s Coach Responds to Barca After 0-4 Defeat to Atletico Madrid

The indirect “verbal duel” between coach Álvaro Arbeloa and Hansi Flick following Barcelona’s 0-4 loss in the Copa del Rey has drawn attention, exposing the intense pressure and fierce competition at Real Madrid.

A historic night for Spanish football unfolded in a unique way without the presence of Real Madrid or coach Álvaro Arbeloa. Nonetheless, the Spanish coach became the center of backstage discussions after delivering a sarcastic response related to Barcelona’s 0-4 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals, directly targeting coach Hansi Flick.

Earlier, it was the German strategist who made the first move. When asked about Barcelona’s “easy” path in the Copa del Rey, facing only lower-tier opponents, Flick replied with sarcasm: “Ask Real Madrid.” This comment referred to the royal team’s elimination by Real Albacete in the tournament.

At the latest press conference, Arbeloa took full advantage of a reporter’s question about Barcelona appearing “more vulnerable” after their heavy loss. The former Real Madrid defender gave a brief but clear message directed at Flick: “There’s nothing to say about that match. Ask Barcelona and Flick.”

Real Madrid has long been the destination for the world’s top stars. However, having players like Kylian Mbappé or Vinícius Jr does not guarantee an automatic starting spot.

Arbeloa emphasized the importance of keeping the entire team ready. According to him, at a club of Real Madrid’s stature, the skill gap between players is often much narrower than at other teams.

“The 11 players I put on the field were the best fit for that match. There are still 15 others. As a friend of mine once said, even the weakest player here is as good as the rest. Everyone knows their chance will come, and all are working very hard. I feel very fortunate because I want everyone to feel important,” Arbeloa shared.

Arbeloa and the Pressure of Criticism

Leading the world’s biggest club always comes with enormous pressure. In reality, Real Madrid’s recent performances have not fully met fans’ expectations, and Arbeloa has not escaped criticism.

The 42-year-old coach said his many years of playing at Bernabéu help him remain calm: “I just took this position, but I’m not unfamiliar with Real Madrid. In fact, very few things here still surprise me.”