Real Madrid's nightmare 2025-26 season reached its lowest point on Sunday as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in El Clasico, failing to mount any serious challenge against their arch-rivals. The loss confirms a second consecutive year without a major trophy for the Bernabeu club, leaving fans and players alike searching for answers.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa initially pointed to a controversial non-penalty decision but quickly shifted focus to the bigger picture. "It seemed clear to me that there was an elbow, but nevertheless, congratulations to Barça for winning the league today," Arbeloa said. "Our season is over today but we can't give up. We defend something much bigger than all of us, the Real Madrid badge. We have to show that we are really hurt."

The former Real Madrid defender-turned-manager didn't shy away from addressing the frustration simmering among the club's passionate supporters. "We can't say many things because we understand the frustration and anger (of the supporters). We can only look to the future and learn what we have done wrong this year. We always get up. I understand the anger of the Madrid fans. We need to collectively take a step forward and have a clear idea of what we have to do."

Arbeloa emphasized that the team's issues extend beyond just the Clasico defeat. "You can play against Barça and lose, but against others you can't," he added, referencing the points dropped throughout a disappointing campaign.

On the injury front, Arbeloa addressed the notable absence of Kylian Mbappe, who was left out of the squad entirely. "There are two weeks left of the season and we will have to see how he evolves from the discomfort to see if he can play or not. I would have liked it if he played, but he was not 100%."

He also explained the late withdrawal of Dean Huijsen from the starting lineup. "He wanted to play, but he was weak when he started to warm up. In a game like this, we needed energy."

With the season now officially over, all eyes turn to Arbeloa's future as manager. Talks are expected to take place in the coming days, as Real Madrid faces the difficult task of rebuilding after a campaign that fell well short of the club's legendary standards.