Real Madrid vow to keep fighting after slipping four points behind Barca

Real Madrid, under the guidance of under-pressure coach Alvaro Arbeloa, are maintaining their resolve and intent to keep fighting until the very end. They will visit Celta Vigo on Friday with hopes of closing the gap from four points behind Barcelona.

Los Blancos’ last outing saw a defeat against Osasuna two weeks ago, followed by an embarrassing home loss to Getafe that escalated the scrutiny on their fortunes and Arbeloa’s position as manager. The coach has already reassured his players: “We’re four points behind, not 18. This is Real Madrid. As long as we can mathematically fight, we will.”

In a recent dressing room meeting, the team was reminded that there’s still much of the season left to play. Arbeloa acknowledged that consecutive league defeats are difficult to digest due to the club’s reputation and expectations. However, what matters most now is their upcoming match against Celta Vigo on Friday.

The team has suffered severe setbacks in recent weeks with injuries affecting key players including Brazil’s Rodrygo Goes, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Eder Militão. Additionally, defender Dean Huijsen will miss the game due to a suspension.

In his statement, Arbeloa emphasized that they are determined to show their true potential in such moments. “When you’re winning and everyone is playing well, it’s easy to wear this shirt,” he said. “But right now, the only thing on our minds is tomorrow’s match.”

The team faces a challenging Champions League last-16 first leg against Manchester City next Wednesday. Both Mbappé and Bellingham are expected to recover in time to face their former club.

Arbeloa stated that any decisions regarding fitness issues would be handled by Real Madrid’s medical services, indicating a pragmatic approach amidst the uncertainty surrounding these crucial players’ availability.