Real Madrid has undergone a dramatic transformation since their disappointing 1-0 defeat to Getafe three weeks ago. A remarkable five-game winning streak has not only erased the memory of that La Liga setback but has also significantly uplifted the atmosphere at Valdebebas, the club’s training ground.
This impressive run includes a crucial Champions League victory over Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and breaking a five-year winless streak at home against Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Reports indicate that Alvaro Arbeloa, whose position was recently questioned internally, has successfully shifted the squad’s perception of him, garnering widespread support.
Arbeloa Secures Strong Backing from Real Madrid Squad
Information suggests that if President Florentino Perez were to gauge the squad’s opinion on Arbeloa’s continuity for next season, the majority would undoubtedly support his retention. Upon his arrival, the dressing room was notably divided following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, but Arbeloa has gradually unified the players through strategic advancements and effective leadership.
On-field success is paramount, and Arbeloa has demonstrated keen tactical insight, implementing a system that maximizes the potential of key players like Fede Valverde and Vinicius Junior. These two players, previously somewhat marginalized under Alonso, have now become two of Arbeloa’s staunchest supporters. The Real Madrid squad is reportedly pleased with Arbeloa’s tactical approach, daily work ethic, and overall playing style, with his coaching staff also fostering strong relationships with the players.
Arbeloa’s Public Relations Strategy Resonates with Players
Another significant factor in Arbeloa gaining the players’ trust is his adept public communication. Recently, he has openly advocated for Antonio Rudiger’s contract renewal, declared Thibaut Courtois the club’s greatest-ever goalkeeper, and consistently praised several other squad members. Courtois, Rudiger, and Aurelien Tchouameni, in particular, have fully embraced Arbeloa’s methodologies. Furthermore, his decisive decision to bench Trent Alexander-Arnold (a move accepted by the English player) in favor of Dani Carvajal for the Madrid derby showcased his discipline and was positively received by the entire team.
His standing is further bolstered by the Castilla players, who not only fully commit to his methods but also offer unwavering support. This loyalty is largely due to Arbeloa providing young talents like Manuel Angel, Thiago Pitarch, and Cesar Palacios with their first-team opportunities, integrating them effectively into the senior squad.
The immediate challenge now revolves around how Arbeloa will reintegrate key players like Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe following their injuries. While Brahim Diaz has effectively adapted to the four-midfielder system over the past two weeks, the reintroduction of Bellingham and Mbappe is sure to necessitate tactical adjustments and a potential evolution of the team’s playing strategy.
