Alvaro Arbeloa defends Vinicius Junior and calls for unity at Real Madrid

Goals from Kylian Mbappe and Raul Asencio secured the victory on Saturday, a result that left Madrid just one point off the top of La Liga after Barcelona slipped up away at Real Sociedad. Despite the win, the mood inside the stadium was tense, with frustration spilling over after recent defeats to Barcelona in the Supercopa de España final and Albacete in the Copa del Rey.

Several players, including Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga, were jeered during the match, but Vinicius received the strongest reaction. The Brazil international, who was making his 350th appearance for the club, has not scored since October and has struggled for consistency this season.

Arbeloa, however, was clear in his support. "This is a player who has been writing his story at Real Madrid for many years," he said ahead of Thursday's UEFA Champions League match against Monaco at the Bernabeu. "He has given us two Champions League titles and many magical nights."

The Madrid coach stressed the importance of support from the stands. "He needs the Bernabeu to bring out his best," Arbeloa said. "He has a huge heart and is very emotional. He loves this badge and the fans. As a coach, I would love to see a stadium that stands behind its players."

Vinicius, now 25, has scored six goals in 29 appearances across all competitions this season. His form and a reported falling out with former coach Xabi Alonso have drawn criticism, but Arbeloa made it clear the winger remains central to his plans.

"Vinicius will play as long as he is available and performing," he said. "He is extraordinary and unpredictable. If I want to win titles, I need Vinicius on the pitch, not off it."