Álvaro Arbeloa, the coach of Real Madrid, appeared at a press conference in the press room following the 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid in the 29th round of the Spanish League, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

The coach said about the comeback: "We showed character and mental strength. We had to suffer while being down to ten players. I have a different perspective, but I thank referee Jose Luis for coming to explain the reason for the red card. We managed to secure the three points, which is what we wanted."

He added: "The referee said it was excessive force, but I don't see it that way. There was no intention to harm or injure the opponent. That's my perspective, which differs from his. However, he came to explain why Valverde was sent off, and I appreciate that. Sometimes that's important even if it doesn't change anything. The red card made things more difficult, and we had to suffer a lot. Every victory is a turning point. Now we have a league battle. The goal has been achieved."

He continued: "Vinicius delivered another great match. It's further proof of his talent, courage, and fearlessness. He makes mistakes and tries again. As I always say, we are very lucky to have him because of his commitment, talent, and desire to lead the team. I don't know if this is the best time in his career, but it's very close to it."

He emphasized: "What has changed in you since your arrival? I am getting to know the players more and more. I arrived without enough time to work, and I had to see how they could be integrated. It's not easy. Arriving mid-season and trying to understand the team. That's what has changed. Now I know my players better and how to bring out the best in them. We still have a lot ahead. We are evolving."

Regarding Mbappe's participation as a substitute: "I try every day to choose the best lineup. When you have the best player in the world, you should make use of him. After being absent for nearly a month, it's natural for him to return gradually, and that's what I prefer. He delivered good minutes and was a constant threat. With his national team, he will get more minutes and come back better."

Regarding his victories over Mourinho, Guardiola, and Simeone: "When you have the best players, it becomes easier. The team knows how to endure and be collective. I always tell the players: when the crowd pushes you, it feels like the field is tilted in your favor. I thank everyone, and we want to stay united and keep winning."

Regarding Carvajal's performance and whether Arnold was indeed late for training: "I choose the best lineup for each match. I think Carvajal delivered very good minutes and was close to Lookman. I'm pleased with him and with what Trent also offered. I'm happy to have many options."

"What have I changed? I don't know, that's a question for the players. I try to get the most out of them and for us to be a cohesive team. Previously, we relied solely on individual talent. Now we want clear ideas and a distinct style of play, considering that we have just arrived."

Regarding the difficulty of integrating Bellingham and Mbappe into the team: "My goal as a coach is to feel that I am being unfair to as many players as possible when selecting the lineup. Meaning, I have 25 players and they all deserve to play."

Regarding Bellingham's plan: "We will see in the upcoming matches. He returned after a long absence and needs to progress gradually like Mbappe. I have to find the right place for him. His problem is that he is excellent at many things, and when you are good at everything, you have to choose."

About Brahim Diaz: "He has started to understand what I want from him as a playmaker or a false nine. When the opponent is compact, he has the freedom to move between the lines. I asked him to take risks and not just avoid mistakes. He needs to dribble, shoot, and make a difference. This is the Brahim we need."

And regarding Militao's condition, he said: "He will be available for the Mallorca match after the international break."

He added: "Five consecutive wins, do you hate the international break? I don't know. This is the reality. Our goal is to keep winning."

He concluded: "What do you say to those who doubted you? They didn't know the quality of players I have."