Former Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has paid tribute to defender Alvaro Arbeloa, calling him a legend of the club in his own right.
The defender was part of the side that lifted La Liga under Mourinho in the 2011-12 season, his first league title with los Blancos.
Arbeloa had come up through Madrid's youth system, making his first-team debut in 2004 and returning in 2009 after stints at Deportivo and Liverpool.
The 33-year-old has been a mainstay at the club since, prompting Mourinho to heap praise on his former player.
"Arbeloa is not just a player for me, he is a friend. How does a player turn into a friend?" the Portuguese told Marca.
"By being an example of passion for his profession, for love of his club, for his dedication to the group and its objectives, for his honour with relation to those with whom he works day to day.
"In the history of the club, there are and will be many of the world’s greatest players.
"Arbeloa may not have that accolade, but he is surely one of those who has given Real Madrid, his fans, his coaches and his teammates everything he had, and everything he didn’t.
"For Arbeloa, I only have my words of gratitude. In my 16 years as a coach I have him in my podium of the most important players of whom I've worked with. A good player and an exceptional man."
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- Goal