Alvaro Arbeloa's Bold Defense of Vinicius Junior Threatens to Backfire Spectacularly
Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa firmly declared that Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior and Federico Valverde retain his "complete trust" amid mounting criticism directed at the trio in recent weeks.
The three star players were unable to make any meaningful contribution during Los Blancos' disappointing 4–2 loss to Benfica in the Champions League, amplifying the intense pressure already surrounding key figures in Real Madrid's squad. Kylian Mbappé and Thibaut Courtois also faced criticism despite their efforts to salvage the match for their side.
Speculation began circulating around the Spanish capital regarding potential squad changes or even benching some marquee players following such a disheartening evening in Lisbon, but Arbeloa dismissed such talk entirely. "I comprehend the football discussions. However, I consistently desire to field the finest players available.
"The more playing time they can contribute for me, serving the team, the superior. These are athletes who possess the ability to influence a match at any moment. There will be individuals who aren't Madrid supporters who prefer them off the field. I assume that Madrid enthusiasts want their premier players to remain accessible and competing.
"The five players you mentioned are athletes who, on a global scale, could rank among the top 10. They possess my complete trust. It's not merely my faith, it's their ability that earns them their position on the field," Arbeloa concluded.
Arbeloa's Steadfast Support Presents Both Benefits and Drawbacks
Arbeloa's Steadfast Support Presents Both Benefits and Drawbacks
Among Arbeloa's greatest assets as Real Madrid's new coach is the unwavering support he demonstrates for every player wearing the white jersey. The Spanish tactician prioritized instilling maximum confidence in his struggling squad, and the outcomes delivered immediate results.
Following a heavily rotated lineup's failure to advance past second-division Albacete in Arbeloa's managerial debut, the club's top performers returned to action and secured three consecutive victories. Los Blancos netted 10 goals while allowing only one during that impressive run.
The Spanish powerhouse appeared to have regained their self-assurance, particularly Vinicius Jr, whose troubled relationship with Xabi Alonso affected not only the opening half of his campaign, but the entire squad's performance. However, one shocking loss has brought Real Madrid crashing back to reality.
The criticism surrounding the club's marquee players is justified, particularly regarding the Brazil winger, who has managed just two goals across his previous 22 matches. Doubts also exist about Valverde's role in the team once Trent Alexander-Arnold reclaims the right-back position; the Uruguayan performed poorly upon returning to midfield during the Spanish Super Cup final.
Supporting players publicly—and privately—helps restore unity within an otherwise divided locker room, but it provides no benefit to underachieving stars. A culture of responsibility must emerge at the Bernabéu if the team hopes to maximize its potential and regain complete fan support.
Vinicius Jr Committed His Future to Real Madrid—But What's the Price?
Vinicius Jr Committed His Future to Real Madrid—But What's the Price?
Alongside his on-field difficulties and his public dispute with Alonso, Vinicius Jr's stagnant contract discussions have overshadowed his 2025–26 season. The forward initiated extension talks for his current deal, which expires in June 2027, last January but has achieved minimal progress.
Vinicius Jr reportedly seeks a record-breaking €30 million ($34.6 million) annual salary, a figure the organization previously refused to consider. Nevertheless, the difficult negotiations and vocal disapproval from Real Madrid's own supporters have not weakened the 25-year-old's commitment to the club.
"I desire to remain here for an extended period," Vinicius Jr stated following the team's 6–1 victory over Monaco. "There's considerable discussion about my contract extension since I have another year remaining. We're completely calm about it. I have faith in [Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez], and he has faith in me. We maintain an excellent relationship, and we'll resolve matters when appropriate. We're not rushing to accomplish that."
However, with each lackluster display from the No. 7, his salary demands appear increasingly unrealistic, particularly since it would mean compensating him more than Mbappé, who virtually carries the team's scoring burden alone.
If Vinicius Jr cannot recover his form over the coming four months, he may discover himself with limited negotiating power in contract discussions with the Spanish club, regardless of how frequently Arbeloa praises him publicly.