“Arbeloa transforms Real Madrid stars into champions.”

When Álvaro Arbeloa took over as head coach of Real Madrid in January, his entry into the team was anything but easy. The pressure was overwhelming, with a packed schedule of matches and the need to quickly establish himself in a dressing room filled with global football stars. However, the former Liverpool defender showed that he was not intimidated by such challenges. “It’s not something that worries me too much,” Arbeloa said at his first press conference, demonstrating a confidence that quickly translated into positive results.

Two months after his arrival, Arbeloa managed not only to strengthen relationships with the players but also to boost the team’s performance on the pitch. In March, victories against renowned opponents such as Benfica, managed by José Mourinho, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, and Diego Simeone’s Atlético de Madrid, proved that his approach was working. Although Real Madrid remains four points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona, a decisive clásico awaits in May, while the Champions League campaign progresses to the quarter-finals against Bayern Munich.

“I am getting to know the players more and more,” said Arbeloa after an exciting 3-2 victory over Atlético. “I arrived at a time when I practically had no time to work with the team and understand how they felt comfortable, and how they interacted with each other.” Acknowledging the complexity of his appointment mid-season, Arbeloa revealed that his ability to observe and adapt has evolved in recent months. “Now I know my players personally and professionally, I know where I can get the best out of them and where I can make adjustments.”

One of the players who has shone under Arbeloa’s guidance is Vinícius Jr. The young Brazilian has been a key force, starting 16 of the 17 matches under the new coach and significantly increasing his offensive output, with 11 goals compared to the six he scored in 27 games while playing under Xabi Alonso. Arbeloa has focused on restoring the forward’s confidence, encouraging him to play freely and express himself on the pitch. “I’m lucky to have Vini, he is loved by all the fans. We want to see the Vini who enjoys playing, who laughs, who dances… that’s the Vini I want to see,” Arbeloa said at his presentation.

This approach contrasts with reports of tension that existed during the Alonso era, where Vinícius even expressed discontent when substituted in a classic match. Arbeloa, for his part, has publicly defended the player, ensuring that he has the full support of the coaching staff and the locker room. “He is one of the most dangerous players, if not the most dangerous, in the world and represents what it means to be a Real Madrid player,” he added.

In parallel, Fede Valverde’s form has surged since the arrival of Arbeloa. During Alonso’s tenure, Valverde contributed just three goals and seven assists in 31 matches. Since Arbeloa took over, the Uruguayan has started in all 17 games, scoring seven times and providing five assists. A crucial change was his return to the midfield position, where he feels more comfortable. “I wasn’t born to be a right-back,” Valverde commented, referring to his discomfort in playing outside of his natural position.

Now back in midfield, Valverde is shining, having scored six goals in a month, including a hat-trick against Manchester City and a decisive goal in a 3-2 victory. Arbeloa’s transformation of the Real Madrid team is not just about results, but about reclaiming the essence of the players, fostering an environment where everyone can express their talent and potential. The question everyone is asking now is: how far can this Real Madrid go under Arbeloa’s leadership? The answer may very well be revealed in the coming weeks, as the battle for La Liga and the Champions League continues to heat up.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.