Doubts arise over Arbeloa

What once looked like the remedy to Real Madrid’s uncertain campaign has quickly run out of steam. The so-called Arbeloa effect has evaporated, and with it the hope of a swift turnaround in both form and results. Doubt has settled over the Santiago Bernabéu and the club’s Valdebebas training complex alike. Even before the loss to Getafe there was frustration at surrendering top spot in LaLiga, but the defeat to José Bordalás’s side has left precious little room to defend the coach’s recent work. His lifeline now has a name – the Champions League.

With three months still to play, the outlook feels increasingly daunting on every front. The aim had been to refresh the team’s image, to sharpen both its play and physical edge. At Valdebebas there was genuine belief that the new man in the dugout could reignite the squad. It is clear now that he has not. The team has stalled.

Arbeloa’s imminent threat

Setting aside the Copa setback in Albacete, the warning signs first appeared in players deployed out of position. Now the lack of results has reignited broader concerns. Seeing Barcelona four points clear stings, and within the club explanations are being sought beyond injuries, especially with Manchester City looming on the horizon. The players have not escaped scrutiny over their performances, but it is the coach who shoulders the heaviest burden.

Osasuna and Getafe have effectively handed LaLiga back to Barcelona just when the Catalans seemed most vulnerable. More troubling still is the sense within Real Madrid that enough was not done to prevent it. Arbeloa’s best news is that in eight days’ time the Champions League returns to the Bernabéu, along with Pep Guardiola’s City. He has just over a week to reconnect with a squad that appears to have drifted once more.

The handling of the final 20 minutes against Getafe reflected poorly on both coach and players. There was no composure, no craft – only reckless challenges, yellow cards, even a red, along with aimless protests and needless fouls. And yet it is Bordalás who often draws criticism. “Getafe weren’t the ones wasting time – it was the team in white,” came the remark as directors filed out of the stands.

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