Arbeloa: "Team Unity Makes the Difference; Mbappé's Celebration with Brahim Díaz Reflects Real Madrid's Spirit"

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa affirmed that team unity was the most prominent factor behind the collective celebrations accompanying the team's goals, noting that the cohesion among players represents the true foundation for achieving positive results. Arbeloa explained that the first principle he has been keen to instill since his first day as coach, succeeding Xabi Alonso, is for the team to remain united. He cited Kylian Mbappé's celebration after the second goal with Brahim Díaz, who has been going through a difficult period after missing a crucial penalty for the Moroccan national team in the Africa Cup final a week prior, as an example.

After the 2-0 victory over Villarreal in La Liga, Álvaro stated: "The first thing any team needs is to realize the necessity of staying united. We will go through difficult and complex moments, and goals can only be achieved through unity. This is what I have been keen to emphasize since day one, especially since we haven't had enough time to work much on the field."

He added: "The most important thing is for the players to be cohesive. We saw that last Wednesday in Vinicius's goal celebration, and we saw it today also with Brahim (Díaz). I found a fantastic group of players, young individuals with a sound mentality, who share a strong relationship among themselves, working together and collaborating constantly. This is the first fundamental rule in any team sport: the unity of teammates and sacrifice."

He pointed out: "There are players who haven't participated in matches, but they train well, await their opportunity, and contribute to supporting the team. It might seem that matches are decided only by the players who participate, but there are a large number of elements who give a lot to the team. Therefore, credit goes to all the players."