Real Madrid will ‘keep fighting’ in Laliga title race – Arbeloa

Real Madrid will continue to push in the La Liga title race for as long as it remains mathematically possible, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa said on Thursday, after his side fell four points behind Barcelona.

Los Blancos travel to Celta Vigo on Friday aiming to cut the gap to a single point before Barcelona, the reigning champions, face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.

Madrid surrendered top spot following a loss to Osasuna two weeks ago and then suffered another setback at home to Getafe last weekend, intensifying scrutiny on Arbeloa, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.

“We’re four points behind, not 18. This is Real Madrid. As long as we can mathematically fight, we will, and if there ever comes a time when we can no longer fight, we will still keep fighting,” Arbeloa said.

“In the dressing room, we’re aware that there’s still a lot of the season left.

“We’ve had two consecutive league defeats. Of course, at a club like Real Madrid, defeat is always difficult to handle because of the expectations and the pressure, but right now the only thing we’re thinking about is tomorrow’s match.”

Injuries have further complicated Madrid’s campaign. Brazilian winger Rodrygo Goes has joined Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Eder Militao on the injury list after sustaining a serious knee problem against Getafe that could rule him out of the summer World Cup. Defender Dean Huijsen will also miss the trip to Celta due to suspension.

“When you’re winning and everyone is playing well, it’s easy to wear this shirt,” Arbeloa added, while stressing he would not “make excuses” over the mounting absences.

“We need to show our true potential now. It’s in moments like these that you see if we’re worthy of wearing this shirt and this badge.”

Madrid are also preparing to host Manchester City in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie next Wednesday. Mbappe has travelled to Paris for treatment on his knee, while Bellingham is recovering in London, with both racing to be fit in time for the clash.

Arbeloa said any decisions regarding their availability would be determined “by the medical services of Real Madrid”.