Arbeloa takes charge for the first time in Real Madrid's Copa del Rey clash at Albacete tonight.
He said, “What I discussed with Xabi Alonso yesterday stays between us. I’m eager to start my first game in a competition where everything is at stake. I’m lucky to have an extraordinary squad and can’t wait for tomorrow.”
“We have the whole season ahead of us. We’re in a great position in all three competitions, and tomorrow we fight for the first one. We’re well placed in LaLiga and the Champions League. My main concern is having all players available, working hard with them, and making sure they understand what I want.
"Ultimately, it’s about them, having the chance to express themselves, enjoying the game, and being happy. Wearing this crest is the best thing that can happen to you, it’s a huge privilege. My only focus is ambition and the desire to win every title because that’s what this crest demands.”
Arbeloa added: “Nothing came before anything else. He wished me the best, and I'd do the same if the roles were reversed. Our friendship comes before everything. We spoke for a long time yesterday, and I wished him well because he’s a fantastic coach. I’m sure he’ll do great things in the future. We’ll always be close, as we have been all these years.”
Asked about the players' attitude, Arbeloa was adamant.
He also said, “We’ve all seen the season and the effort they put in during the Super Cup final. We have a fantastic squad and a group of players who are ready to do what it takes, well aware of the demands of Real Madrid. Some have won six Champions Leagues, and people forget that quickly.
"Winning with this crest only comes through values like sacrifice, hard work, and consistency. That’s what has made Real Madrid the greatest club in history and gave us this incredible record. That’s what these players have.”
“They’re great professionals with enormous talent. All of them are good guys who want to do things right. No one wants to win titles more than Real Madrid players. I know what winning means and the happiness it brings to millions of fans worldwide.
"I told them this morning that the best time of my life was as a Real Madrid player. They need to enjoy it — they’re hugely demanding of themselves. Today was my first day, my first contact, and I can’t wait for tomorrow for our first game together.”