How Alvaro Arbeloa has improved Real Madrid and won credit in the locker room | OneFootball

Alvaro Arbeloa’s start as Real Madrid manager was far from smooth. Promoted from Castilla in January with no senior coaching experience, following the sacking of Xabi Alonso, he lost his first game to Albacete.

Furthermore, the former defender oversaw a downturn in La Liga form that turned a two-point lead over Barcelona into a four-point deficit. As such, his appointment was met with uncertainty, and early results only increased speculation about his future.

In recent weeks, however, the situation has shifted. Progress to the Champions League quarter-finals after two wins over Manchester City, combined with improved performances, has strengthened his position.

The mood around Arbeloa has changed significantly, and much of that is down to how he has managed the squad, reports Mario Cortegana of The Athletic.

Approach appreciated by the players

One of the main issues under Alonso was a lack of rapport with key players. His methods, which included heavy video analysis, increased training intensity, and stricter discipline, were not well received by a significant part of the squad. Even some regular starters were unhappy.

Under Arbeloa, that dynamic has changed. The relationship between staff and players is now closer, and his approach is more appreciated.

He is seen as more approachable, maintaining regular and direct communication. Players frequently speak with him in his office, and he also initiates conversations himself. This has had visible effects on individuals.

For example, Brahim Diaz, previously on the fringes, spoke with Arbeloa and was then brought into the starting lineup against Celta Vigo. He has remained a starter since, including both matches against Manchester City, performing well.

Lesser restrictions

There is a more relaxed atmosphere in the locker room. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Another clear difference from Alonso’s tenure is the reduction in restrictions and the overall loosening of the internal environment.

Under Alonso, access to training sessions and matchday spaces was tightly controlled, limited strictly to players and a small group of coaches, creating a closed atmosphere where interactions were more limited and routines more rigid.

Arbeloa has shifted away from that model. The environment is now more open and fluid, with fewer barriers around daily operations at the training ground and on matchdays.

While the core professional structure remains intact, the reduction in strict oversight has made the day-to-day experience more comfortable for players.

This change has helped ease tensions that had built up under the previous regime. Importantly, this has not led to a lack of discipline, but rather a better balance between structure and freedom.

Deep preparation for games

Although Arbeloa has reduced the volume of video analysis compared to Alonso, preparation remains detailed. His staff focus extensively on both opponents and their own team, ensuring clear plans for each match. This has been evident in specific tactical decisions.

In the recent tie against Manchester City, Federico Valverde supported Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back to contain Jeremy Doku. Set pieces were also carefully planned.

At the same time, there has been a balance between structure and individual freedom. Vinicius Jr., one of the players most refreshed since Alonso’s departure, has produced key moments of individual brilliance on a more consistent basis in recent weeks.

Vinicius is thriving under Arbeloa’s management. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Surviving the injury crisis

Arbeloa’s progress has come during a significant injury crisis. Real Madrid have been without several key players, including Jude Bellingham, Eder Militao, Kylian Mbappe, and Rodrygo. He has also lost other stars like Raul Asencio and Eduardo Camavinga at times.

Despite these absences, results have improved. After defeats to Osasuna and Getafe in La Liga, Real Madrid have responded with four consecutive wins, including progression past Manchester City in the Champions League.

The team has remained competitive without several regular starters, reflecting Arbeloa’s ability to manage the situation effectively.

Trusting the academy

To deal with injuries, Arbeloa has turned to the Real Madrid academy, which is seen as a big point in his favour. The standout example is 18-year-old Thiago Pitarch, who has taken on an important midfield role, starting four games in a row.

Other players like Jorge Cestero, Manuel Angel, Cesar Palacios, and Diego Aguado have also received minutes. This reliance on youth has helped maintain squad depth while also strengthening Arbeloa’s standing with supporters.