Arbeloa: Barca's days of glory are over

Posted Saturday, May 05, 2012 by ESPN

Real Madrid's Alvaro Arbeloa has declared the team's La Liga win as the start of club rival Barcelona's descent.

After beating Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in their latest La Liga fixture, Real Madrid secured league glory after a season-long battle with Barcelona. The title is Los Blancos' first since 2008, and Arbeloa believes their win is a sign of things to come.

"I think this is our moment. I will say this phrase [to Barcelona], 'Your days of glory will soon come to an end'," he said to XL Weekly.

The full-back hailed manager Jose Mourinho's contribution to their title win, revealing that the Portuguese is not only a shrewd tactician, but also a genuinely nice person.

"He's a great guy and sometimes I look at him as more of a friend who I can talk to about everything. Sometimes we may require maximum points and after a game, he will give you a hug," Arbeloa shared.

"I have no complaints about him, he has always treated me well. Another thing I like about him is that he will tell you what he thinks to your face and that's very important."

Real Madrid host Granada in their next La Liga fixture this Saturday.