The coach, who took over mid-season, has failed to improve results or foster positive locker room dynamics. Arbeloa reportedly neglected communication with a group of Spanish players, including Dani Carvajal, Raúl Asensio, Dani Ceballos, Dean Huijsen, and Fran García. These players are expressing dissatisfaction with his decisions, accusing him of favoritism towards certain individuals and academy graduates.
The situation surrounding Carvajal is particularly tense, with reports suggesting he openly complained about his limited playing time. Similar issues plague Asensio, who has been sidelined after disagreements with the coaching staff. Ceballos is also reportedly unhappy, finding himself out of the squad following a conflict with the coach.
The deteriorating sporting results are further exacerbating the locker room atmosphere. Real Madrid has been eliminated from both domestic and European competitions, and currently trails league leaders Barcelona by a significant 11 points in La Liga. Álvaro Arbeloa's decisions, such as deploying academy players in crucial matches, are not yielding the expected outcomes, deepening the frustration among more experienced players.
Kylian Mbappé's Controversies
Kylian Mbappé's behavior is also stirring emotions. The French forward, currently nursing a minor injury, recently traveled to Italy with his partner, a move that has not been well-received by some within the Madrid club. While his previous trip to Paris, accompanied by club doctors, was accepted, the Italian excursion has reportedly caused clear discontent in the dressing room.
"Although the injury is minor, many teammates don't understand his trip outside of Spain. While he declared he would do everything in his power to play in El Clásico on May 10th, some have become skeptical after his recent actions," reported journalists from El Mundo.
Arbeloa himself, however, is avoiding public comment on internal team matters. "What happens in the Real Madrid dressing room stays in the Real Madrid dressing room. There have been circumstances that we need to manage a little better," the 43-year-old coach stated at a press conference.
Reports have also emerged that, given the escalating problems, the club's management is considering changes to the coaching staff. Media speculation suggests José Mourinho is a leading candidate to take over the team, with his return to Madrid after nearly 13 years being a massive surprise.