Real Madrid defender Alvaro Arbeloa is set to play his last game at the Santiago Bernabeu this weekend.
Although some had assumed that the Spanish defender would be retiring after it was confirmed that the club would not be renewing his contract at the end of the season, Arbeloa himself has insisted that he will be seeking a new club.
“I’ll keep playing, that’s clear. I love training and playing and want to continue. I have nothing, know nothing, about where I’ll be next year,” Arbeloa said speaking to Marca.Although the former Liverpool right back has never been the most lauded defender in the game, it seems Jose Mourinho is a massive fan and decided that it was appropriate to pay tribute to his former player on the eve of his Real Madrid departure.
Mourinho managed Arbeloa for three years during his time at the Bernabeu and it seems he holds the World Cup winner in the highest regard.
Check out the ex-Chelsea manager’s open letter to Arbeloa below.
“Arbeloa is a friend, not just a player for me. Why does a player become a friend? By becoming an example of passion for his profession, of love for his club, of dedication to a working group and its objectives, humility and honor in the relationship with all those who work with him every day.
In the history of our huge club it will be many of the best players in the world. Arbeloa does not have a high profile, but he is certainly one of those who has given Real Madrid, its fans, all his coaches and his teammates all he had and what he had not.
Arbeloa, I have only words of thanks. In my 16 years of coaching I have, surely, you placed on the podium of the most important players with whom I have worked. A good player and an exceptional man.”