Arbeloa confronted with make-or-break weeks that could define his Real Madrid future | OneFootball

The month of April is shaping up to be a decisive period for Real Madrid in what has already been an unpredictable 2025–26 campaign. 

What was expected to be a dominant season has instead taken a different turn, with Alvaro Arbeloa now trying to steady the ship.

The former youth team coach has managed to keep Real Madrid competitive in both La Liga and the Champions League, but the coming weeks will determine whether that progress is enough to secure his long-term future. 

His position as head coach beyond this season is far from guaranteed and could hinge on results in April.

What’s in store for Real Madrid?

To begin with, the biggest test will come against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. 

Progressing to the semi-finals would significantly strengthen Arbeloa’s case, especially given his record of already overcoming high-profile managers like Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho in previous knockout ties. 

A crucial month begins for Arbeloa. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

At the same time, domestic form remains equally important, as Real Madrid must stay competitive in La Liga ahead of the decisive Clasico at Camp Nou, which is on May 10.

Furthermore, squad management will be crucial. Arbeloa has already relied on key contributions from players like Thiago Pitarch and Brahim Diaz, but April will demand more. 

The returns of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Eder Militao add both quality and selection headaches.

Lastly, the fixture list offers no room for error. 

It begins with Mallorca at the Santiago Bernabeu, followed by a demanding run including Bayern Munich, Girona, Bayern again, Alaves, and Real Betis. 

Each match carries weight, and any slip could have consequences for both the season and the coach’s future.