Did Arbeloa’s decisions cost Real Madrid players a World Cup chance? | OneFootball

Alvaro Arbeloa’s time in charge of Real Madrid was supposed to bring stability to a squad that had already experienced months of uncertainty. 

Instead, there is a growing belief that his decisions created new divisions within the dressing room and negatively impacted several Spanish players.

The former defender took over in January following Xabi Alonso’s departure and was tasked with restoring balance to a team struggling to find consistency. 

While there were hopes that his arrival would unite the squad, many feel the opposite happened during his 28-match spell on the bench.

Much of the criticism centres on the treatment of Spanish players, particularly academy graduates who were expected to play a more prominent role under a coach with deep ties to the club.

Questions over Arbeloa’s handling of Spanish players

Arbeloa did not give Spanish players many opportunities. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Throughout the season, everyone questioned why several Spanish members of the squad struggled to establish themselves despite opportunities seemingly being available.

Of the lot, Dani Carvajal became one of the most discussed cases. Many expected the veteran defender to play a larger role, particularly given his experience and leadership within the squad. 

Instead, his appearances became less frequent than anticipated, leading to speculation that sporting decisions were being influenced by broader club priorities.

The situation has also fuelled concerns about his international future. With limited playing time affecting his visibility, he was ultimately left out of the World Cup squad like the rest of the Spaniards in the team.

There is more to the story

Dean Huijsen also experienced an inconsistent campaign. Injuries undoubtedly played a role, but questions remained over the level of trust he received during important moments of the season. 

Carvajal and Arbeloa did not see eye to eye. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Although his performances improved towards the end of the campaign, doubts persisted regarding his standing within the squad hierarchy.

Perhaps the most controversial case involved Gonzalo. Despite injuries affecting attacking options at various stages of the season, the academy striker struggled to earn meaningful opportunities. 

Even when circumstances appeared to favour his inclusion, Arbeloa regularly turned to alternative solutions.

For many, that decision became symbolic of a bigger issue regarding opportunities for homegrown players.

Why the debate?

Right now, many Real Madrid supporters believe Spanish players have gradually lost influence within the squad compared to internationally recruited stars. 

Should Arbeloa have done something better? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Whether fair or not, there is a perception that academy graduates and domestic talents face a tougher path when competing for opportunities.

In fact, the cases of Fran Garcia, Dani Ceballos and Raul Asencio have further strengthened that argument. 

All three experienced fluctuating roles throughout the campaign, often finding themselves in and out of the team without establishing long-term continuity.

While not everyone agrees with the criticism directed at Arbeloa, it is indeed a subject that needs serious thinking as to why Real Madrid will have no representation at the World Cup this summer.