Arbeloa claims experience of pressure as Fulham struggle

“Maybe you don’t know me, but I’ve played for the best team in the world,” Álvaro Arbeloa declared. The defiant remark comes as his start at Fulham proves difficult: he joined last summer after being dismissed by Real Madrid and finding himself without a team, and has yet to win with his new club.

Fulham have two points from two draws after six Premier League matches and sit bottom of the table. The 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town the previous day further worsened the situation. Speaking at a press conference after the match, Arbeloa said he remained calm: “I never worry about my job. I’m not afraid. You can’t be a coach if you feel that. You have to work, make decisions and show confidence in the players. I’m very happy with many of the things the team is doing. I know it isn’t easy for them.”

The coach then turned the focus back to the club: “It’s not about my job, but Fulham’s; that is the most important thing. Obviously, it’s only six matches, but it’s true that we need points.” He also said he believes he is the right person for the role and can handle the pressure of having to change the situation.

Arbeloa added that pressure has been part of his life since childhood. He said: “Maybe you don’t know it, but I’ve played for the best team in the world. I’ve coached the best team in the world.”