Every new coach brings changes, and the arrival of Álvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid was expected to reshape several aspects of the team. However, as often happens in football, there are always a few players who quickly become untouchable under a new manager, and at Madrid this group has already taken shape.
Since taking over, Arbeloa has shown great trust in a select group of stars. Vinícius Jr., Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Thibaut Courtois have seen their roles become even more important under the Spaniard’s leadership.
Together, these five players form the backbone of the team. In fact, they are the only ones who have played every possible minute under Arbeloa so far, with the exception of the match against Albacete.
In all other matches, they have started and remained on the pitch without being substituted.
Bellingham’s situation is slightly different, as he was forced to leave the field early in the match against Rayo Vallecano due to an injury.
Nevertheless, up to that point he had played every possible minute, which highlights his importance in Arbeloa’s plans.
From the very beginning, Arbeloa has made it clear that he wants to build the team around these leaders.
Reports suggest that Arbeloa has paid special attention to Bellingham, Vinícius, and Valverde — players who at times had struggled to rediscover their best form under previous systems.
The team’s tactical approach is also closely linked to this philosophy, as Real Madrid is now trying to find Vinícius as quickly as possible in attacking positions, allowing him to face defenders in space and make decisive actions.
The Brazilian has responded well, recording two goals and three assists in six matches under the new system.
Bellingham enjoys a similar status, as he is considered one of the key players of the project alongside Vinícius and Mbappé, and is seen as a central figure for both the present and the future of the team.
Valverde’s role is slightly more complex. This is because he has been used at right-back, a position he has not always preferred in the past.
However, with Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to return soon, the Uruguayan could move back into midfield, where he feels more comfortable and can have a more direct influence on the game.
