Xabi Alonso's goodbye letter to Arbeloa: Always in my team

Posted Sunday, June 25, 2017 by Marca.com

For me, speaking about Alvaro Arbeloa isn't just a case of speaking about a teammate, but one of speaking about life and a friend, one with capital letters and a lifelong one. Now that he is saying goodbye to football it's inevitable that I think back to the start, when we met each other at Anfield.

He arrived at Liverpool quietly, away from the noise of the spotlight. He won over the dressing room with his fighting spirit and his loyalty, demonstrating that from the first day in our own place and away from home too.

We all remember the match at the Camp Nou in the 2006/07 Champions League last 16. That day he became one of those players who all coaches wish to have. From our year in Liverpool to our time at Real Madrid, we were inseparable because he offers you unconditional friendship. He was never bothered by what others said and he has always been loyal to his convictions. He has never hesitated to defend what he believes in and those who he believes in, which is why I admire him so much.

He is now beginning a new chapter in his life, but with his mind and with his 'madridismo' on his skin, I have no doubts that he couldn't be at a better place. That badge and this No.17 are bound to reunite sooner or later. Given all of this, I will always want you in my team, both professionally and in life as a non-negotiable starter. The best is yet to come, Trufas.