Álvaro Arbeloa celebrates Vinícius Jr performance against Mónaco: goal and assist in the Santiago Bernabéu
The Spaniard head coach analyzed the victory 6-1 on matchday 7 on league phase, close to qualify to round of 16.
Real Madrid delivered a footballing clinic at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday night, as Álvaro Arbeloa’s men dismantled AS Monaco with a stunning 6-1 victory. The Matchday 7 fixture of the UEFA Champions League league phase served as a powerful statement from a squad that had faced heavy scrutiny in recent weeks. With Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. playing at an otherworldly level, the "Merengues" have now all but secured their direct ticket to the Round of 16—a feat that hinges on Atalanta failing to beat Athletic Club this Wednesday.
For Arbeloa, this was a dream Champions League debut as interim manager. Beyond the tactical triumph, the night was defined by the emotional "rebirth" of Vinícius Jr., who finished the game with one goal and two assists (finding both Mbappé and the young Argentine sensation, Franco Mastantuono).
The "Unstoppable" Vinícius: A Hug for the History Books
In the post-match press conference, the 42-year-old coach focused heavily on the Brazilian’s psychological state. Vini had been the primary target of whistles in previous matches, but his performance against Monaco turned the jeers back into cheers.
"What I’ve been saying is exactly what we saw today: when he is happy, he is unstoppable—the most disruptive player in the world," Arbeloa stated. "That embrace he gave me after his goal was really for all of Madridismo. It was for the people who showed their support during the difficult moments."
Arbeloa revealed that he has been working closely with the winger to restore his focus: "I told him in private what I say here: we need him at 100% because he is vital. I need him happy and focused on his game. He has my full confidence, freedom, and almost an obligation to enjoy himself."
The Bernabéu’s Justice
The manager also praised the Madrid crowd for their maturity. After a period of high tension, the stadium chose to reward the team’s effort rather than dwell on past frustrations. Arbeloa noted that the "reconciliation" was earned through sweat and clinical finishing.
"I saw the public fully committed to Vinícius, chanting his name. The Bernabéu is, above all, just," Arbeloa explained. "It rewarded the players' effort, their goals, the sacrifices, and the mentality. We were certain, as Mbappé said, that it was our turn to flip the script, and there is no better way to do it than this."
A Night for the "New Guard"
While the veterans and superstars shone, Arbeloa was quick to highlight the collective effort that led to the 6-1 scoreline. The inclusion of youth and high-technical profiles seems to be the hallmark of his short tenure.
- Franco Mastantuono: The Argentine continues to justify the club's massive investment, showing veteran-like composure in the final third.
- Arda Güler: The Turkish playmaker provided the creative spark that unraveled Monaco’s defensive lines.
- Jude Bellingham: Anchored the midfield, allowing the "Vini-Mbappé" duo to roam free.
"Great game from everyone," Arbeloa concluded. "We are emphasizing that we must travel together as a team. It was a night to enjoy, but we must maintain this level for the upcoming La Liga and European challenges."
With this victory, Real Madrid moves into the top tier of the league phase. By avoiding the Play-off round, Arbeloa will have much-needed breathing room in February to focus on the hunt for La Liga.
