Arbeloa on "referees don't like Man Utd losing" : My English not good, my expression was inaccurate

September 20, in the fifth round of the Premier League, Fulham drew 1-1 with Manchester United at home. In the post-match press conference, Fulham manager Arbeloa expressed regret and disappointment over the last-minute equalizer, but also full affirmation and pride in his team's performance. Additionally, Arbeloa discussed the controversial refereeing decisions, Josh King's standout performance, and the team's situation before the international break.

On regret and the schedule

"Yes, I am very frustrated with the result because we were so close to victory, and to concede in the last minute in that manner is truly disheartening. But we need to move on. We knew all along that this month's schedule would be very tough, facing top teams like Liverpool away, Sunderland away, and Manchester United and Chelsea at home."

"So I think we are improving game by game, and my players are doing a great job. They performed very well against a strong opponent like Manchester United. We also know that they are under immense pressure and desperately needed this win. So I think we played very well and were very close to victory."

On performance and opponents

"Because we were facing a strong team with top players, I think their performance was actually better than what people are saying. For us, it wasn't easy to control Bruno Fernandes, Cunha, and the two midfielders. We also knew they committed a lot of players centrally, which was tricky because they have very good players like Rashford and Mbeumo to exploit space."

"But we handled it well, and when the ball was at our feet, we also created many chances and could have scored more goals. Ultimately, however, I think we showed a very high level and played a great game. We are constantly improving, and if we keep playing like this, I believe victory will eventually come."

On the international break and having only 2 points

"What can I do? That's just the reality. For the next three weeks, my players will be with their national teams, but every team faces the same situation. When they return, we will get back to work and continue to improve. Yes, I can say that I am incredibly proud of my players. I know we only have 2 points right now, but football sometimes isn't just about getting what you deserve. In the long run, if we maintain this way of playing, we will eventually reap our deserved rewards."

Praising young player Josh King

"Yes, as always, absolutely amazing. He is an incredible player, extremely talented, very good, and very difficult for defenders to contain. He is proving how good he is game after game. Obviously, he needs to be patient regarding the national team because he is so young. But I am very pleased with him, and I think he is very important and will be crucial for us throughout the season."

Remarks on referee's decisions

【Arbeloa: After the Manchester derby, I knew the referees don't like Manchester United to lose】

"My English isn't very good, perhaps not accurate enough, so I prefer not to comment on the referee. Because you never know when you might say something you shouldn't, it's better to stay calm, focus on my team's performance, and think about the next game."

"Yes, yes, I am indeed not very happy, but as I said, I need to stay focused and put my energy into what I need to improve. We still have a lot of preparation to do because I have higher expectations for my team and my players. I think we can do better than today. We've only been together for a month, so we need to continue along this path, and I will dedicate all my energy to my players."

Can you elaborate on the Maguire foul?

"No, for me, he is a big player, and I can't say for sure. Perhaps in my opinion, it wasn't a foul, and that's okay. As I said, I prefer to analyze the game, the players, and the tactical system, and I think that's best for everyone."

"As I said, when you get a draw in this manner, you inevitably feel a bit frustrated, but I think it's better to focus on analyzing my team and the game. I know it's not easy to be a referee, and I always try to help them. I wish them all the best, and I wish my team all the best, that's all. Thank you."

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