Alvaro Arbeloa believes Fulham “are improving” despite sitting second bottom going into the first international break of the 2026-27 season.
Lisandro Martinez’s own-goal initially gave Fulham the lead against Manchester United but Matheus Cunha struck in the 89th minute to rescue the Red Devils a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage.
Fulham consequently sit second bottom in the Premier League after five games with two draws and three defeats, but crucially above Tottenham Hotspur on goal difference.
“I’m very upset with the result because we were so close, and the way that we conceded the goal at the end of the game is really frustrating,” explained Arbeloa who felt that his team could of won the game but believes that the Cottagers are improving in terms of performance.
“But we need to continue. We knew that this month was going to be hard against top teams—Liverpool away, Sunderland away, Manchester United, Chelsea at home. So I think we are improving game by game.
“My players are doing a great job. They did really well against a tough team like Man United. We knew also that they were under pressure, that they needed the victory, so I think we did so well, and the victory was so close.”
A drab first hour saw both teams struggle to convert their chances but Arbeloa felt that Utd played better than what many of their own fans are saying, although he felt that his own players could of scored but is happy with the improvement in quality.
“We had a top team with really top players in front of us, and I think they are playing better than people are saying. But we did really well, and also when we had the ball, we created so many chances that we could have scored more goals.
“But at the end, I think we performed so well. We had a good game, and I think we are improving. And if we play in that way, I think the victories will come.”
The Premier League is now on a three-week international break yet Arbeloa believes that his team will get their rewards in the long term if continue to raise their game across the season.
“Now we have three weeks where my players are out, but it’s the same for every team. When they are back, we will be back working and continue improving.
“I’m so proud of my players. I know that we have only two points, but in the long term, when you are playing in this way, I think you will get what you deserve.”
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