Real Madrid fullback Alvaro Arbeloa stands by his praise for former coach Jose Mourinho. The former Liverpool fullback admits his support of the new Chelsea manager has resulted in a major backlash.

"When you talk about Mou, I did what I felt, not because I was thinking of leaving Real Madrid. Often it seems to be sacrilege to speak well of Mourinho, but I do from the experience I have had for three years living and working every day with him," said Arbeloa.

"I have received so many shots that I look like a sieve, but I have a very clear conscience and I am not a traitor."

On his relationship with Iker Casillas, Arbeloa continued: "We do not have the unity we had. The day will come when that will be fixed, eventually an occasion will arrive to talk to the face.

"This has nothing to do with Mourinho. It's between us two."