The landscape in Madrid has shifted dramatically over the past few weeks. What started as a turbulent 2026—marked by a difficult January, the departure of Xabi Alonso, and the loss of two trophies—has transformed into a period of renewed stability and “Madridismo.”
The appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa on January 12, 2026, was initially met with skepticism, but the former “Capitán” has silenced critics by restoring balance to the locker room and tactical discipline to the pitch.
The Stats of the “Arbeloa Effect”
Since taking over, Arbeloa has turned Real Madrid into a winning machine, particularly in the domestic league.
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La Liga Dominance: Madrid is currently on an eight-game winning streak in La Liga, including a statement 4–1 win over Real Sociedad and a clinical 2–0 victory at Mestalla.
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Closing the Gap: Barcelona remains in 1st place with 61 points, but Arbeloa has narrowed the lead to just one point (Madrid at 60), setting up one of the tightest title races in years.
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European Grit: Following a shaky 4–2 loss to Benfica in the final league phase match, Arbeloa guided the team to a crucial 1–0 away win in Lisbon during the first leg of the Champions League playoffs.
Tactical Identity: More Than Just Individuals
The biggest change noted by Cadena COPE and Marca is the shift from individual reliance to a compact unit.
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Defensive Solidity: With the return of physical trainer Antonio Pintus to full influence, the team looks sharper in transitions.
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Midfield Balance: Arbeloa has successfully integrated players who felt sidelined under the previous regime, fostering a “team-first” mentality.
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Leadership under Fire: Arbeloa’s handling of the Vinícius Júnior incident in Lisbon earned him immense respect. By choosing a path of “balanced support” and group unity, he reinforced his status as a leader who protects his players.
2026 and Beyond: Is He the Long-Term Answer?
The “Arbeloa Project” is no longer being viewed as a temporary fix.
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The Mourinho Shadow Fades: While rumors of a José Mourinho return were rampant in January, his recent friction with the club’s board (following the Benfica match) has cooled those talks significantly.
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The Board’s Trust: Florentino Pérez is reportedly impressed by how quickly Arbeloa adapted from coaching Castilla to the first team. If the season ends with a major trophy (La Liga or the Champions League), his confirmation for the 2026/27 season is almost guaranteed.
“I love these victories because I see the Bernabéu enjoying them,” Arbeloa noted after the win against Sociedad. For the first time this year, the fans and the bench are finally in sync.