How Arbeloa is getting the best out of Real Madrid's stars
He has started 16 of Arbeloa's 17 games in charge, with his goal return also improving significantly - he has scored 11 goals under Arbeloa, compared to managing just six in 27 appearances under Xabi Alonso. Arbeloa has focused on rebuilding the forward's confidence, encouraging him to play freely and express himself rather than restricting him tactically. "I'm lucky to have Vini, he's loved by all the fans.
We want to see the Vini who enjoys playing, who laughs, who dances… that's the Vini I want to see," Arbeloa said in his first news conference in charge. That approach contrasts with reports of tension under Alonso, with Vinicius muttering "I'm going to leave this team" after being substituted in October's Clasico. Arbeloa has publicly defended him, making clear he is fully backed by the coaches and the dressing room.
"He's one of the most dangerous players, if not the most dangerous, in the world and he embodies what a Real Madrid player is," added Arbeloa. Vinicius put talks about his future at the club on hold last summer but, last week, he made his commitment to the club clear. "I'm only thinking about Real Madrid and staying there for a long time," he told the media before Brazil's friendly with France.
Fede Valverde's form has also surged since Arbeloa took charge. Under Alonso, he contributed three goals and seven assists from 31 appearances. Since Arbeloa's arrival, Valverde has started all 17 of his games, scoring seven times and providing five assists.
A key factor has been a positional shift back into midfield. During Alonso's tenure, Valverde at times struggled to cement a starting spot in his natural role, being deployed in unfamiliar positions such as right-back. Although the decision was partly driven by injuries to Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Valverde's frustration was clear.