He real Madrid lives one of its most unexpected moments of the season. Without several of its big stars, the team led by Álvaro Arbeloa has found solidity, cohesion and a more collective football, just when LaLiga and the Champions League are being played.
The absence of figures like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes has coincided with a notable improvement in the white team’s performance.
A more balanced and less “galactic” Madrid
Far from the model based on individualities, the new Madrid is committed to a more compact block, with young players and the youth players taking center stage.
The team has had four consecutive victories, including a resounding elimination of Manchester City in the Champions League, with victories in both the first leg and the second leg.
Players like Brahim Díaz and the young Thiago Pitarch have gained prominence in this new scheme.
Arbeloa finds the formula at the right time
Since his arrival in January, after replacing Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa has managed to revitalize the team in the midst of the fight for titles.
Real Madrid remains:
4 points from the lead in LaLiga
In the Champions League quarterfinals, just five games away from a possible 16th “Orejona”
The coach has opted for a different tactical system, supported by the youth team and a more disciplined approach.
Is it really better without Mbappé?
Despite the good collective moment, it would be risky to say that Madrid is better without its stars.
Especially Kylian Mbappé has been key during the season, leading the team’s scoring charts in the League and Champions League.
Arbeloa’s plan aims to progressively reintegrate its figures, maintaining the balance achieved in recent weeks.
The derby against Atlético, a test by fire
The next big challenge will be the derby against Atlético de Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, a duel that could be decisive both in LaLiga and emotionally.
Furthermore, there is the possibility that both teams will meet again in a hypothetical Champions League final in Budapest.
For its part, FC Barcelona, leader of the championship, will host Rayo Vallecano and could extend the advantage before the derby.
Real Madrid has shown that, even without its big stars, it is still a competitive team and a candidate for everything.
More than a dependence on names, this stretch of the season shows the depth of their squad and the ability to reinvent themselves at key moments.
