Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa has stated that his future is not on his mind as he prepares his team for their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich. Following their defeat to RCD Mallorca on Saturday, the European competition now appears to be the more attainable title for Los Blancos.
Currently sitting seven points behind FC Barcelona with eight matches remaining, many observers believe the La Liga title race is effectively over. As a result, speculation has grown that Arbeloa’s future could depend on Real Madrid’s progress in Europe. However, the coach dismissed any suggestion that a loss to Bayern could determine his fate.
“We’re not thinking about not winning the tie. I understand you have to analyse all the scenarios, but for us there’s only one: beating Bayern. That’s what we want and what we believe in,” Arbeloa said.
Addressing perceptions of his coaching style, Arbeloa rejected the idea that he fits neatly into either a tactical or man-management category, in contrast to figures such as Xabi Alonso.
“I don’t place myself in their camp, wherever you want me. My obsession is preparing my teams for what they’re going to face on the pitch and bringing out the best in each player. You have to be a coach capable of doing everything,” he explained.
Reflecting on the team’s reaction to their recent defeat, Arbeloa acknowledged the disappointment within the squad, emphasizing the high standards at the club.
“A dressing room like any other after a loss. Perhaps more hurting, because if there’s one club where defeat isn’t tolerated, it’s Real Madrid.”
Looking ahead to the clash, Real Madrid will be without Dani Ceballos, Ferland Mendy and Thibaut Courtois. Several key players also face suspension risks for the second leg, though Arbeloa made clear he will not ask them to change their approach.
“It’s not necessary. They know they’re one yellow card away from suspension, but tomorrow’s match is a do-or-die game, and they know that if they have to take a card for the good of the team, they’ll do it.”
Up to seven players could miss the return leg in Munich if booked, including Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen, while Rodrygo Goes is already ruled out through injury.