Manuel Ángel recently spoke with Real Madrid TV to share his thoughts on the start of the preseason. Now entering the 2025–26 campaign, the midfielder embarks on his second season wearing the captain’s armband for Castilla. He reflected on the energy within the squad, the role of the coaching staff led by Álvaro Arbeloa, and the focus areas during the opening sessions of training.

“I’m starting the preseason with a lot of enthusiasm and hunger,” Manuel Ángel said. “The coach is asking a lot from us, and the team is slowly taking it all in. Personally, I’m really happy to continue as captain for another season. I want to have a strong year, help my teammates, and support the coaching staff in every way I can.”

Asked about working under Arbeloa and his coaching team, Manuel Ángel responded with familiarity and admiration. “I already worked with them when I was captain of the U19s. The manager is very close to the players—that helps us a lot. He trusts us, and we have to give that trust back. I’m looking forward to helping him and the team. I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

On the training ground, the midfielder stressed how intense the sessions have been so far. “From the very first day, the demand has been high. Every pass, every duel—everything matters. The first three days have really pushed us.”

He also highlighted the goals of this initial phase: “It’s about preparing ourselves physically and mentally, and understanding the coach’s tactical ideas so we can apply them in the preseason games. We’re heading to Marbella next week, which will be great for team bonding and putting everything into practice before our first match of the season, here at home against Lugo on August 31.”

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