The recent appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as the head coach of Real Madrid has sent shockwaves throughout the football community, with many supporters expressing skepticism about the decision. The move has been perceived as a premature risk, rather than a bold and strategic appointment, due to Arbeloa's lack of experience as a senior manager. However, those within the club believe that this decision is a calculated one, based on Arbeloa's loyalty and dedication to the team.
At his unveiling, Arbeloa emphasized the importance of identity and continuity, stating that his 20 years at the club have taught him the values of winning and success. He expressed his commitment to the team, saying "On Saturday I turn 43 and 20 of those years have been at this club. Every day I'm at the best club in the world. This club is about winning, winning, and winning again. When I was a player, I learned those values from the people in that dressing room. They're still there, and that's what matters."
Arbeloa's appointment is not without precedent, as Real Madrid has a history of promoting former players to managerial positions. Under the presidency of Florentino Perez, the club has favored managers with either proven elite pedigree or deep ties to the club. This approach has led to the appointment of managers like Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho, as well as former players like Zinedine Zidane, who have understood the club's culture and pressure.
While Arbeloa lacks the heavyweight resume of some of his predecessors, he embodies the profile Perez has repeatedly trusted - a former player aligned with the club's values.
Arbeloa's experience as a coach within Real Madrid's youth system and reserve team, Castilla, has provided him with a unique understanding of the club's values and culture. He has spent his entire coaching career within the club, winning multiple league titles and progressing to manage the reserve team. As he takes over for Wednesday's Copa del Rey match at Albacete, it will be interesting to see how he implements his vision and approach.
In a recent press conference, Arbeloa shared his thoughts on his new role, saying "I spoke to Xabi yesterday. Our friendship comes before everything. We spoke for a long time yesterday, and I wished him well because he's a fantastic coach. I'm sure he'll do great things in the future. We'll always be close, as we have been all these years." This statement highlights the strong bond between Arbeloa and his predecessor, Xabi Alonso, and demonstrates the respect and admiration that exists between them.
Despite Arbeloa's appointment, there is still uncertainty over the club's long-term direction. The departure of Xabi Alonso following the weekend's Spanish Super Cup loss to Barcelona has raised questions about the club's ability to compete with its rivals. Real Madrid is currently second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona, and the pressure is on Arbeloa to deliver immediate success.
As Arbeloa navigates his new role, he will face numerous challenges and expectations. However, his commitment to the club's values and culture and his experience within the youth system and reserve team provide a strong foundation for success. Ultimately, the decision to appoint Arbeloa as head coach will be judged on its merits, and the coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the club's long-term direction.
In conclusion, the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as Real Madrid's head coach is a calculated decision based on his loyalty and dedication to the team. While there are concerns about his lack of experience as a senior manager, his understanding of the club's values and culture, as well as his experience within the youth system and reserve team, provide a strong foundation for success. As the team looks to the future, it will be interesting to see how Arbeloa implements his vision and approach, and whether he can deliver the success that the club and its supporters expect.
Original: BBC Sport
Image: BBC Sport
Written by Npsports
