Cadena COPE has revealed that several Real Madrid players are unconvinced by coach Álvaro Arbeloa’s tactics, despite his exceptionally friendly approach to everyone at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Arbeloa took over as Real Madrid coach from Xabi Alonso, and the length of his contract and whether he will remain in his position beyond the current season are still unknown.
According to the latest report, Arbeloa’s approach to the players is so kind that some feel he is being overly friendly. However, the positive aspect is that the atmosphere in the Real Madrid dressing room has improved significantly, leading the management to believe that replacing Alonso was beneficial.
In the same vein, there is some bewilderment among the players regarding certain tactical decisions by Arbeloa, from starting Jorge Cestero against Benfica instead of Dani Ceballos to the tense discussion that took place between the coach and the stars regarding his decisions in the recent Rayo Vallecano match.
Arbeloa is trying to win over the players, agreeing to grant them frequent leave and following in Carlo Ancelotti’s footsteps to maintain a good relationship with the stars. However, the reality is that the players are not convinced by the young coach’s tactical ideas.
Cadena SER concluded its report with a statement that perhaps best encapsulates the dire situation within Real Madrid: “Some of the players we spoke to expected more with the change of coach. They say it’s about working without complaining, but they act as if they’re taking instructions from the Castilla coach.”
Things are heading in this direction, with Real Madrid likely to appoint a new permanent coach with a strong personality and clear, consistent tactical ideas next summer. Jürgen Klopp remains Florentino Pérez’s top target.
