Arbeloa: "Even at 80%, Mbappé Remains the Best Player in the World"

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa affirmed that French star Kylian Mbappé remains the best player in the world, despite not performing at 100% of his capabilities against Benfica in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff qualifying for the round of 16.

Speaking at the press conference following Real Madrid's 1-0 victory over Benfica, Arbeloa said: "The first half was very good, and we deserved to score one or two additional goals."

He continued: "We kept trying to create chances. They opened up more, and we lost some control, but we saw the Real Madrid we want – a solid team that puts in a lot of effort. I am very happy with the team compared to the match three weeks ago."

Arbeloa added: "You should never underestimate a team coached by Mourinho after a 1-0 win. He is already preparing for the next match, and this Benfica will not allow us to relax. The Bernabéu will host Benfica, and it will be a very important match. There are 90 very high-level minutes left to play."

Regarding Mbappé, the Real Madrid coach explained: "He has been sidelined for several days. His knee pain prevents him from being at 100% of his abilities. But he is the best player in the world, and even at 80%, he remains so. His effort must be commended."