Real Madrid remains a strong contender in the Champions League and La Liga races, but the team’s performances in recent weeks have raised many questions and reignited concerns at the Santiago Bernabéu at a crucial point in the season.
The Royal Club is entering a pivotal phase that could define its immediate future, given a complex schedule and increasing pressure on coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who has yet to make the expected impact since taking over.
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February… The Month of True Test
February looks like a nightmare for Real Madrid, as the team faces two difficult away matches against Valencia and Osasuna in La Liga, in addition to a tough encounter against Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu, as well as a highly anticipated European clash against José Mourinho’s Benfica in the Champions League.
Key Absences and Unconvincing Performances
The team’s performance has shown little improvement compared to the Xabi Alonso era, and matters have been further complicated by injuries and suspensions that have plagued the squad at a crucial time.
Real Madrid will be without Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior for the match against Valencia, while the English star will miss the entire month of February – a significant absence, even though the team’s results have remained relatively stable during his time away.
Defense: The Biggest Weakness
The back line has been the most affected this season, with most defenders suffering repeated physical setbacks. Players like Hoesen and Asensio have been forced to play consecutive matches under immense physical strain due to a lack of available options, increasing the risk of injuries and a decline in form.
Three Returns Boost Arbeloa’s Performance
The positive news came at the start of the week, with three key players returning to training without any apparent physical problems, suggesting they will be fit for the upcoming match against Valencia.
The trio is:
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Antonio Rüdiger
Ferland Mendy
Arnold had been sidelined for two months with a quadriceps injury, while Rüdiger and Mendy were injured during the Super Cup match against Atlético Madrid.
Expected Changes in the Lineup
Arnold’s return could give Arbeloa the opportunity to move back to right-back, allowing Fede Valverde to return to midfield, with Arda Güler pushing forward to compensate for Bellingham’s absence.
Despite high expectations, Alexander-Arnold has yet to live up to them, making his signing a subject of criticism. The coming weeks will reveal his true value.
Rüdiger… The Missing Leader
On the other hand, Antonio Rüdiger’s return is crucial, especially with Militão unavailable. Real Madrid needs a true leader to organize the back line.
Despite Asensio’s inconsistent performances, Hoesen’s level has frustrated fans, who booed him in the last match against Rayo Vallecano.
Arbeloa Under Pressure
Arbeloa is gradually strengthening his squad with the return of injured players, but the real challenge remains improving the team’s overall performance and restoring its technical prowess before entering a crucial period where any further setbacks are unacceptable.
The coming weeks will not only determine the fate of the season but could also shape the entire future of Real Madrid.
