Real Madrid step into the defining month with no excuse remaining | OneFootball

Real Madrid are approaching a crucial stretch of the season at a time when positive results are no longer optional, but essential. 

Expectations are high, the margin for error is shrinking, and recent developments around the squad have only increased the pressure. 

For Real Madrid, the coming weeks could define both their campaign and the credibility of the project under Alvaro Arbeloa.

From a squad availability point of view, Arbeloa can hardly complain, as everything points to this Sunday’s clash against Valencia being played with a near full-strength team. 

To put things in perspective, only Eder Militao and Jude Bellingham are set to miss out, while Vinicius Jr. is suspended for this tie. Beyond that, the dressing room is largely intact for this match.

No margin for error

This removes one of the most common explanations for Madrid’s uneven performances. 

Physical condition can no longer be used as a shield, as Antonio Pintus has been working with the squad for close to a month. 

This is typically the phase of the season when a team like Real Madrid should look dominant, aggressive, and confident on the pitch. Instead, the performances have fallen short of those standards.

The coming days will therefore be decisive. After a full week focused on rest and training, questions remain over whether February will truly mark a turning point. 

Eyes on Arbeloa

This situation will also shine a spotlight on Arbeloa himself, as the coming fixtures will offer a clear verdict on whether he can handle the demands of this level. 

With fewer injuries and a manageable schedule, the responsibility now sits firmly on the bench and in the dressing room.

The immediate test comes at Mestalla, followed by another week without midweek commitments before hosting Real Sociedad at the Bernabeu. 

The real examination arrives later. From February 17 onwards, the calendar tightens, with the Champions League play-off against Benfica, sandwiched between a tough away trip to Osasuna at El Sadar and the return leg at home.

By then, excuses will be irrelevant, and results and commitment will speak for themselves.