Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa appeared at a press conference following the 6-1 victory over Monaco in the seventh group stage match of the Champions League, held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

The coach began his talk about Vinicius: "What a night for Vinicius... What I said earlier is exactly what we saw today; when he is happy, he becomes an unstoppable player, the most influential and decisive. The hug he gave me was meant for all the Madridistas, for everyone who supported him during difficult times. We need him 100% because he will be extremely important. I want him happy, focused on his game, enjoying himself. He has my full trust, freedom, and even a kind of commitment to deliver this level of performance."

He added in his speech: "Is Real Madrid a contender for the Champions League? Not Arbeloa's Real Madrid, but the club Real Madrid... Real Madrid is always a contender for everything. This is their championship, this is Real Madrid."

Regarding the boos followed by the Bernabéu applause for Vinícius: "The Bernabéu was very engaged, supporting the players. My feeling is that everyone gave a great performance, not just with the ball but in terms of effort. Bellingham’s running was extraordinary, as were Franco’s and Arda’s… great efforts from many players outside their ideal positions. That’s what makes me proud: that they put the team above individual interests."

He emphasized: "This is the players' victory: their desire, effort, and mentality. The medals belong to them and to the Bernabéu crowd, because playing like this without the atmosphere is impossible. I said it before: if we want to win something, we need them."

Regarding the relationship with the Bernabéu: "There are still many matches ahead. This week, I held more press conferences than training sessions! But I am grateful for the way they welcomed a coach with no experience. This is Real Madrid: ambition, character, effort, before any style or tactical concepts."

He continued: "Today, the Bernabéu proved that when it is with its team, Real Madrid becomes better. And with the support of the Bernabéu come the great nights. We know the magnitude of the demands, but we are happy to give our fans a great night."

Regarding Kamavinga's deployment as a left-back: "The first half against Levante was bad for everyone, myself included. If it required changing the starting eleven or the coach, I would have done it. I'm not pointing fingers at anyone. Eduardo is a great player, and we wanted him to help us with possession. I thank him for putting himself at the service of the team in a position that is not his own."

He added: "Do you ask the forwards to drop back and defend? When the team is compact and pushing forward, they are the first to press. Fini and Kylian put in a lot of effort, but we also want them ready to attack and make a difference, just like they did today."

Regarding the comparison between his era and Zidane's era: "Do you want me to win three consecutive titles as well? What happened was historic and difficult to replicate. We will fight for everything. I don't believe much in coincidences, but in hard work and ambition."

About his personal state: "I am fine, excited as on the first day. Happy for the players and the fans. I want the players to enjoy themselves, as that is the reason I got into coaching."

He said, "I saw the crowd supporting Vinicius, chanting his name and applauding him. He is passionate and needs this love. The Bernabéu is fair, and today it rewarded the players' effort."

He concluded about Brahim Diaz's return: "He delivered an exceptional performance. Morocco's reaching the final was largely thanks to him. I am excited to welcome him back; he is a versatile player and will add a lot to our team."