Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa and stars Vinicius Jr. and Thibaut Courtois have lauded the impact of the club’s youth academy after a depleted squad secured a dramatic 2-1 win over Celta Vigo.
Alvaro Arbeloa celebrated Real Madrid’s 124th anniversary by praising his squad’s resilience following a late 2-1 victory at Celta Vigo.
Despite numerous injuries, youth players like Thiago Pitarch and Cesar Palacios proved vital. Arbeloa specifically highlighted Pitarch’s maturity, labeling him a “Real Madrid brand” player.
He noted, “There’s no better way to celebrate these 124 years of history of the best club in the world.”
Vinicius Jr. and Thibaut Courtois echoed their manager’s sentiments, emphasizing the confidence boost ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Manchester City.
Both veterans stressed the importance of academy contributions during the injury crisis. Courtois, reflecting on Federico Valverde’s stoppage-time winner, admitted he “went crazy” with joy.
He added, “The youth team players came on really well and I congratulate them.”