Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa appeared in a press conference following the 2-0 victory over Espanyol in the 34th round of the Spanish League competition.

The coach began his talk about Mbappé's trip to Italy for a vacation during his injury absence: 'Everything related to the program of injured players is supervised by Real Madrid's medical staff, and they determine when they should be present at Valdebebas or not. After that, each player acts as they see fit in their private time, and I cannot interfere in that.'

Regarding Vinicius Junior's performance, he said: 'The evaluation is easy; he played a great match again, scored two fantastic goals, and was the leader in the attacking line. He was a constant threat, played with aggression, intelligence, courage, and continuity. I rested him a bit because I don't want to risk him not being ready for El Clásico. He is a great player, a natural leader, loved by everyone, and a special person, and I am very proud to have him.'

He added about Mbappé: 'As I said, everything related to the injured is up to the medical staff, and then each player has the freedom to act in their private time, and I cannot interfere.'

On the comparison between Vinicius and Mbappé's commitment, he said: 'I don't get into comparisons between players. We need everyone. I've always said that winning requires the commitment of all players. It hurts me when we see other teams running more than us, not only without the ball but also when we have it. We need to move more and make more runs without the ball. Even if it's tiring, you have to make ten runs to get one pass. We need everyone's commitment in pressing, defense, and attack. If you want to be a complete team, talent alone is not enough.'

He continued: 'I like it when players understand that commitment is not only important but is part of Real Madrid's values. This club wasn't built by players who enter the field as if they're wearing formal suits, but by players who go out with shirts full of sweat and mud, full of effort, sacrifice, and continuity. With the best players in the world who understand these values, we combine talent with commitment, and that's what makes us the best.'

On the fans' dissatisfaction with Mbappé: 'I have no doubt about the commitment of any of my players. I believe everyone realizes the importance of these matches. When you defend the Real Madrid shirt, you understand the magnitude of the responsibility. No player is bigger than Real Madrid, and there never has been and never will be. I believe all players understand this well and know where they are and what this club represents.'

On the possibility of Mbappé catching up with El Clásico, he said: 'We will see his condition during this week. The tests conducted last week indicated that his absence might be a bit longer, but we will see how it develops.'

And about Dani Carvajal's condition: 'I have great hope that he will be able to play before the end of the season and return to finish the season on the field as he deserves.'