Madrid (Spain), Jan. 13 (LaPresse/AP) – “I have never been afraid of failing, but if I tried to be Mourinho I would fail spectacularly.” The new Real Madrid coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, said this during his press conference presenting him in charge, addressing comparisons with the Special One, who coached him at the Santiago Bernabéu in the early 2010s. “I knew this question would come,” he added. “It was a privilege to be coached by him; he had a huge influence on me, but I will always be Álvaro Arbeloa.” Xabi Alonso’s successor hopes the focus will shift to the players. “I want them to express themselves, enjoy playing, and be happy,” he continued. “Wearing this badge is the best thing that can happen in life; it’s a huge privilege for everyone. We need ambition and the desire to win every title, because that is what this badge demands.” Arbeloa admitted he is not worried about managing stars like Mbappé, Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. “It doesn’t worry me,” he said. “Not only are they great professionals, but they are also good people, eager to do things properly. No one wants Real Madrid to win more than the players. Vinicius? I’m lucky to have him; he’s one of the most decisive players in the world, loved by every Real fan. I want to see him smile, enjoy himself, dance.”