Arbeloas Real Madrid Prioritising Reliability Over Spectacle

6 de fevereiro de 2026 às 03:08

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Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa and his key forward Kylian Mbappe share a common view before Sundays La Liga trip to Valencia: the importance of steadiness.

"Im no Gandalf the White," Arbeloa remarked following his sides narrow 2-1 victory against Rayo Vallecano last weekend in La Liga, keeping them just a point adrift of table-toppers Barcelona.

The Spanish coach was indicating that, in contrast to the mythical wizard from Lord of the Rings, he lacks the power of sorcery to alter Real Madrids trajectory. Instead, diligent effort is essential.

"From my squad, I seek the dedication, mindset, determination, and understanding that triumphs demand more than talent alone, reliability is crucial," Arbeloa stated, now six matches into his role.

"Well focus on enhancing execution, resolve, drive, and approach."

Madrid suffered a loss to Benfica in the Champions League last week, where they were dominated in skill and effort, setting up a playoff tie against Jose Mourinhos Portuguese outfit once more.

"Our issue lies in inconsistent performances, we must address it, champions avoid fluctuating between strong and weak showings," Mbappe expressed dejection after the Lisbon setback.

During Arbeloas time, Madrid has seen peaks like a 6-1 demolition of Monaco and a comfortable win over Villarreal, alongside dips such as his initial Copa del Rey stumble against second-division Albacete.

This unexpected defeat might benefit Madrid at Valencia, thanks to an uncommon midweek rest since they skipped the cup quarterfinals.

"During these open weeks, well shape the team and guide it towards our goals," Arbeloa commented.

Mbappe embodies the reliability he urges from colleagues, topping scorers in domestic and European action with 37 goals from 30 outings in all tournaments.

In opposition, other prominent players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior have underperformed sporadically, despite sporadic bursts of brilliance.

Both will miss the Mestalla clash, Vinicius due to suspension and Bellingham sidelined for a month by injury.

Arbeloa has backed his top talents, yet their unavailability could enable a steadier lineup, with creative midfielder Arda Guler eyeing a revival of his effective partnership with Mbappe from the seasons outset under Xabi Alonso.

Madrid launched the season with dependable displays and a winning streak, but this faltered in the colder months prior to Alonsos January departure.

An away fixture might appeal to Madrid after enduring boos from their own supporters at Santiago Bernabeu during recent league successes against Rayo and Levante.

Still, Arbeloa noted that each game intensifies for his team as opponents gain extra incentive against the 15-time European kings.

"Valencia will treat hosting Real Madrid as their highlight fixture of the year," the manager predicted.

"Victory requires an exceptional effort from us."

When Madrid meet Los Che, they might trail Barcelona by four points anew, as the Catalan side welcomes Mallorca on Saturday aiming to heighten the pressure on their foes.

Spotlight player: Lamine Yamal

Having battled a groin problem in the seasons early stages, Barcelonas young sensation Yamal has recently returned to peak condition. The 18-year-old winger is regaining his explosive flair and seeks to propel the title holders to a win over Mallorca on Saturday, widening their summit advantage.

Essential figures

0 - Wins for Espanyol in January across five matches

8 - Penalties converted by Real Madrids Mbappe this term in La Liga

99 - Stops by hardworking Oviedo shot-stopper Aaron Escandell

Upcoming matches

Friday (times GMT)

Celta Vigo v Osasuna (2000)

Saturday

Rayo Vallecano v Real Oviedo (1300), Barcelona v Mallorca (1515), Sevilla v Girona (1730), Real Sociedad v Elche (2000)

Sunday

Alaves v Getafe (1300), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1515), Atletico Madrid v Real Betis (1730), Valencia v Real Madrid (2000)

Monday