Rabat – Real Madrid’s downward trajectory is becoming harder to ignore. A 1‑1 draw against Real Betis on Friday summed up the team’s struggles, leaving them with just one win in six matches since the March international break.
Madrid’s Champions League exit to Bayern Munich ended one major objective, and their La Liga challenge has collapsed similarly.
Barcelona are 11 points clear at the top and could clinch the title as early as next weekend. Arbeloa, appointed in January after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, now faces growing doubts about his future.
A divided locker room
Club president Florentino Perez and other senior figures were already cautious about Arbeloa’s readiness when he took charge.
Tensions have since surfaced, including a dispute with captain Dani Carvajal over playing time. Carvajal’s contract expires in June, and while Arbeloa praised him publicly, he was left on the bench against Betis.
Midfielder Dani Ceballos was excluded entirely, with Arbeloa calling it a technical decision.
Some players, such as Vinicius Junior, have voiced support for the coach, but sources close to a core group of Spanish players describe a sense of unfair treatment compared to others.
Friday’s match lessons
Despite an early goal from Vinicius Jr, Madrid again lacked efficiency in front of goal. Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Vinicius all missed clear chances.
Defensive issues were more worrying, with Betis exploiting gaps on the counter and from set pieces. Goalkeeper Andrii Lunin produced three excellent saves but could not prevent Hector Bellerin’s stoppage‑time equalizer.
Lunin’s strong display was a response to criticism after the Bayern defeat. Sources close to him now believe he is more likely to stay, with the club valuing his contribution.
Injuries and fitness concerns
Madrid’s problems extend to fitness. Mbappe left the Betis game with hamstring discomfort and is racing to be fit for El Clásico.
Arda Guler and Eder Militao have also suffered hamstring injuries, ruling them out for the rest of the season. The medical department is under review, with Niko Mihic, reinstated as head of services in January, expected to lead changes.
Plans for pre‑season remain undecided, though the club may skip an overseas tour in favour of selected friendlies, including the Trofeo Teresa Herrera.
Meanwhile, the Bernabeu continues to generate strong revenues despite ongoing legal disputes over concert noise. Payments tied to the Sixth Street deal, worth $360 million in 2022, are reportedly up to date.
With no major trophies in sight and unrest in the dressing room, Madrid’s season is ending in disappointment.
Arbeloa’s future will be assessed at the close of the campaign, but the pressure is mounting. For Perez and the board, rebuilding is no longer optional; it is urgent.
Read also: Real Madrid Delay Vinicius Jr Renewal Amid Turbulent Season
