Avoiding a direct mention of José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa made his stance clear when speaking to the media before Wednesday’s Champions League game aginast Benfica. Even with a “Jose” mentioned quietly in passing, the message was unmistakable: “I said it last week, and I’ll say it again… nothing Vinicius has done, or could do, ever justifies an act of racism.”

Arbeloa continued by calling on UEFA to act decisively: “UEFA, which has always championed the fight against racism, now has the chance to do more than just display a banner before games.”

When asked about comments made by former Barcelona president and current candidate Joan Laporta, Arbeloa didn’t hold back: “I won’t comment on a candidate’s words. For me, the bigger scandal is that the ‘Negreira case,’ three years later, still hasn’t been resolved.”

On Kylian Mbappé, Arbeloa offered optimism: “He’s been putting in a lot of effort the past few weeks. Everyone knows it, and he’s ready to play tomorrow.”

Benfica, Prestianni and Vinicius

What Real Madrid do you expect to see against Benfica?

“A Real Madrid very similar to the team we saw in Lisbon. That’s what I want, what I hope for, and what we’re working toward. Tomorrow will be a very special match, a big Champions League night at the Bernabéu. We know how important the fans are in games like this. The goal is to win the match and advance in the tournament.”

What about the provisional suspension of Prestianni? Has it been discussed in the locker room?:

“No, we haven’t talked about it. My opinion hasn’t changed since last week: this is a big opportunity to make a real impact in the fight against racism. UEFA has the chance to do more than just display a slogan or banner before games. Let’s hope they seize that chance.”

Any changes in the locker room this week? Has Vinicius said anything else? And is what comes after the provisional ruling the important part?

“No, we’re very focused on tomorrow’s game. The priority is performing at a high level and showing a great image on the field. That’s where all our energy and effort goes. The rest isn’t up to us. Decisions like this are UEFA’s responsibility.”

Locker room morale

Thibaut Courtois said an alleged act of racism cannot be justified by a celebration. Do you agree? Was Mourinho unlucky last week?

“I stand by what I said last week and after the Lisbon game: Vini scored a beautiful goal, an incredible goal, and nothing he does on the field justifies racism. That’s the most important point. Nothing excuses it.”

How’s team spirit? Are the players frustrated or fired up?

“We’re full of energy, excited to enjoy a Champions League night at the Bernabéu. Anyone who’s been here knows the atmosphere is incredible. Tomorrow will be a big night. People say ‘it’s like a final,’ and it really is. Winning tomorrow puts us in the next round and the draw pot, which is our goal. The team is pumped and ready to give everything.”

Laporta and the Negreira case

Thoughts on Laporta’s comment about Madrid selecting referees for 70 years?

“I won’t comment on a candidate’s words. For me, the real scandal remains the Negreira case, the most serious in Spanish football history, still unresolved after three years.”

Vinicius and Mbappé updates

How’s Vinicius now? More motivated?

“He’s in great form, very motivated for matches like this. Since I arrived, he’s been outstanding, a game-changer, exactly what any coach wants on the field. He’s a key leader in the locker room and we need him to enjoy himself and excel in tomorrow’s game.”

Mbappé has seemed a bit off physically in recent matches. Is it because of his knee? How’s he doing?

“Kylian is ready to play tomorrow. He’s been putting in a huge effort the past few weeks. Everyone knows it. His commitment to teammates, the team, the coach, the club, and the fans is impressive. He’s a difference-maker. Any defender facing him knows he can decide a game in any moment. He’s ready, and we’ll need him.”

Do you think Vinicius has moved on from the situation?

“Vinicius has always shown courage and character. Anyone in his position would face challenges, but he’s handled it bravely, with a strong personality. That’s his response. Tomorrow he’ll go out to fight, play a great match, and show why he’s one of the best in the world.”

Regarding Mbappé, should he play more like a central striker, as Vinicius suggested?

“I don’t think scoring is his problem. Kylian is intelligent and knows exactly where to move. Sure, there are moments to exploit spaces in the box, but his stats show he does his job perfectly. Goals aren’t the issue.”

Mourinho’s absence

With Mourinho absent, is Benfica weaker? Some say bringing Prestianni is provocative. What are your thoughts?

“The team is focused on playing well. José not being on the bench isn’t new; he always prepares his teams well in his absence. I expect a strong Benfica tomorrow. They’ll adjust from the first-leg game, and we hope it’s a great match, a great spectacle, and that Madrid wins.”

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