Arbeloa pledges Real Madrid's ongoing battle in La Liga title chase

Real Madrid intend to "persist in the fight" for La Liga as long as a mathematical possibility remains, following their drop to four points adrift of Barcelona, declared coach Alvaro Arbeloa amid mounting pressure on Thursday.

The team heads to Celta Vigo on Friday, aiming to narrow the gap to just one point before Barcelona takes on Athletic Bilbao the next day.

They surrendered their position at the summit after a loss to Osasuna two weeks back, then suffered a humiliating home defeat against Getafe at the weekend, heightening the focus on Arbeloa.

"We trail by four points, not eighteen. This is Real Madrid. While mathematics allows us to compete, we shall, and even if that window closes, our resolve will endure," stated Arbeloa, who stepped in for Xabi Alonso as manager in January.

"Within the squad, we recognise that much of the campaign lies ahead.

"Two straight league losses have occurred. Naturally, in an institution like Real Madrid, setbacks are challenging due to the high demands and intensity, yet our sole focus now is on the upcoming fixture."

Injuries have plagued Madrid severely over the past few weeks.

Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes has joined Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Eder Militao on the injured list after a grave knee problem in the Getafe clash, potentially sidelining him for the summer World Cup.

Defender Dean Huijsen will miss the Celta encounter due to a ban.

"Success and smooth performances make donning this jersey straightforward," Arbeloa continued, refusing to "offer justifications" for the absences.

"It is time to demonstrate our genuine capabilities. Such periods reveal whether we merit this emblem and crest."

Real Madrid face Manchester City at home in the Champions League round of sixteen opener next Wednesday.

Mbappe has gone to Paris for knee treatment, while Bellingham is in London, both aiming to be fit against City.

Arbeloa noted that fitness rulings for the players would come "from Real Madrid's medical team".