Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa appeared at a press conference after the 2-0 victory over Valencia in the 23rd round of the Spanish League, at Mestalla Stadium.

The coach said: "Was it difficult to score? Yes, we knew very well where we were coming to. We have only achieved three victories here in 11 years, and I was lucky enough to play a lot at Mestalla as a player, so I know how difficult it is to play here. For them, facing Real Madrid is always very important. With their reliance on a five-man defense, we knew we needed to be patient. We had to deliver a very serious match, and we deserve the win."

He added: "Valverde's return to midfield? It doesn't matter where you place Valverde, he always delivers a great performance. I know he is happier in midfield, and there we can make the best use of him. David Jiménez's match holds great value, and having academy players participate in matches of this level is fantastic news, and I am very proud of him. As for Trent Arnold, after a long break, we will handle him cautiously. We want him to regain his rhythm gradually, and that's what we will do with him."

Regarding Carvajal's condition: "I see Dani continuously improving. He is progressing step by step, and I will never take risks with him. He even worked on his day off. Inside the locker room, he doesn't need to say much; everyone always listens to him. He is a very important player for his teammates, and he will reach his best level with the patience we have."

He continued: "We are lucky to have Mbappe; he is the best player in the world right now. As I said before, what Cristiano achieved seemed extraordinary, and Mbappe still has a long way to go, but he has the qualities that enable him to follow the same path. And why shouldn't he surpass him? If anyone can do it, it's Kylian."

He concluded about keeping a clean sheet: "This is important. Certainly, we can enhance our performance in terms of aesthetics, and we have a significant margin for improvement. But the team is built first on solidity and commitment. Courtois wasn't forced to make any saves. Fighting spirit, commitment, and sacrifice... these values were reaffirmed by Real Madrid today."