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How Arbeloa Changed Real Madrid After Alonso

Published March 19, 2026, 12:21
How Arbeloa Changed Real Madrid After Alonso

Following the departure of Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa took over as head coach of Real Madrid, initially facing skepticism due to poor results. However, he managed to change the atmosphere within the team, improving player morale and performance, culminating in their qualification against Manchester City in the Champions League. Arbeloa's approach differs from Alonso's, emphasizing human connection and locker room management, rather than strict discipline and intense video analysis. The improvement is also evident in the tactical plan, with players appearing more liberated and the team showing greater cohesion. Nevertheless, Arbeloa's future remains uncertain, as the final verdict will depend on the team's progress in competitions and the winning of titles.