Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa addressed Barcelona’s heavy 4-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final during the pre-match press conference ahead of their La Liga clash against Real Sociedad.
The Spanish coach refused to engage in any discussion about the Catalan side, simply stating:
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“I have nothing to say. Ask Flick’s Barcelona.”
This was a decisive and direct response, given the recent escalation of media tensions between the two sides, particularly following Barcelona coach Hansi Flick’s comments about their Copa del Rey campaign. Flick had alluded to the varying strengths of the opponents before responding, “Ask Real Madrid,” referring to the club’s elimination in the Round of 16 against Albacete.
Full Focus on the Upcoming Match
Despite journalists’ attempts to elicit further comments on Barcelona’s four goals, Arbeloa emphasized that his focus was entirely on preparing his team for the Real Sociedad match, asserting that discussing other teams was not on his mind at this crucial stage of the season.
The coach’s statements reflect a clear desire to shield the team from external pressures while maintaining tactical stability ahead of an important match in the La Liga race.
