Arbeloa Dismisses Future Speculation, Tensions Reports

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa dismissed speculation about his future and addressed reports of internal tensions during a prematch news conference on Saturday ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Espanyol.

Arbeloa, who took over in January following Xabi Alonso's departure, fielded questions on links to Jose Mourinho as his potential successor. The club trails Barcelona by 11 points with five games remaining, putting the title out of reach and leaving a trophyless season all but certain. Barcelona can clinch the championship if it beats Osasuna on Saturday and Real Madrid loses to Espanyol, or with a draw in the upcoming Clasico should both win their matches this weekend.

On rumors that former Madrid manager Mourinho, currently at Benfica, is president Florentino Perez's top choice, Arbeloa replied, "No, what worries me is tomorrow's game. That's what I'm focused on, thinking about Real Madrid and the team. For me the future is tomorrow." He emphasized his singular focus on securing three points against Espanyol.

Arbeloa also declined to discuss reports of a dispute with midfielder Dani Ceballos, who was left out of last week's squad against Real Betis despite no injury....