Tensions are running high in the Real Madrid dressing room as several first-team players have voiced their anger towards manager Alvaro Arbeloa. According to reports, the discontent stems from Arbeloa’s perceived favoritism towards the club’s marquee names, at the expense of Spanish talent within the squad.
Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso as head coach just six months ago, has overseen a disappointing campaign. Los Blancos face a trophy-less season after crashing out of the Copa del Rey in the Round of 16 and suffering a quarter-final exit in the UEFA Champions League. In LaLiga, they trail leaders Barcelona by eleven points with only five matches remaining, making a title comeback highly unlikely.
Insider sources, including Guillermo Rai of The Athletic, reveal that numerous Real Madrid players are frustrated with Arbeloa’s rotation policy. The coach is accused of neglecting Spanish players in favor of the team’s star performers, regardless of their form on the pitch. This has created a rift within the squad, with many feeling that the manager treats certain individuals as untouchable.
With the season winding down, some players believe this is an ideal opportunity to give fringe and Spanish players more minutes rather than sticking with the usual starters. However, Arbeloa has continued to field his preferred lineup, further straining his relationship with the team.
Speculation is rife that Arbeloa will be dismissed at the end of the season, with Real Madrid already on the lookout for a new manager. Among the names linked is Jose Mourinho, currently at Benfica, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. However, Mourinho has stated that he has not received any contact from the club, affirming that he still has a year left on his Benfica contract.