Arbeloa addresses critics, highlighting Bellingham’s leadership qualities.
Álvaro Arbeloa has commended Jude Bellingham’s “leadership” and “winning mentality” following his goalscoring display in this week’s 6-1 Champions League triumph over AS Monaco, describing the outcome as a possible “turning point” in Real Madrid’s inconsistent season.
The England midfielder netted the sixth goal in Tuesday’s decisive win at the Bernabéu, and capped it off with a drinking gesture during his celebration, which he stated was a response to claims regarding his off-field conduct.
Arbeloa commenced his tenure as Madrid coach last week with an exit from the Copa del Rey, but the team has since rebounded with victories against Levante and Monaco, and now prepares to face third-placed Villarreal on Saturday.
“I can only comment on the current situation,” Arbeloa remarked in a press conference on Friday when questioned about Bellingham’s contributions this season.
“In the matches Jude has participated in with me — and during training — he has demonstrated his skills as a player, his technical prowess, his leadership, his personality, and his character. The effort he put forth the other day [against Monaco] was outstanding.”
Bellingham began the season recuperating from shoulder surgery last summer and has now made 16 LaLiga appearances in 2025-26, scoring four goals and providing three assists, in addition to netting twice in the Champions League.
“He is a player with a winning mentality who possesses all the qualities needed for a Real Madrid player,” Arbeloa stated. “Considering his youth, his experience, and the excitement he will bring us in the future, I am very pleased with him.”
Arbeloa’s predecessor, Xabi Alonso, departed the club last week after a defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final, which followed a series of disappointing results prior to Christmas.
However, Madrid heads into the Villarreal match just one point behind Barça at the top of the LaLiga standings.
“In the 10 days I’ve been in charge, based on what I’ve observed, I hope the Monaco match serves as a turning point,” Arbeloa expressed on Friday. “We have much to improve, but the players are eager to work, which gives me confidence.
“I can only discuss what has transpired since I arrived last Tuesday. I cannot comment on changes or the players’ happiness levels. I can share my experience, which is that the players are enthusiastic about working. They have welcomed me warmly.”
Arbeloa mentioned that forward Rodrygo would return from injury to rejoin the squad on Saturday, and noted that he had not yet spoken to Vinícius Júnior — who was named MVP for the Monaco match after assisting three goals and scoring one — regarding his contract situation, which runs until 2027.
ESPN has reported that Alonso’s exit has eliminated a significant barrier to contract renewal discussions, although a considerable financial gap remains to be addressed.
“No, [the contract] is not my decision; it is up to Vinícius and the club,” Arbeloa stated.
“My responsibility is to maximize the players’ potential. Naturally, I hope for Vini to continue making history at Real Madrid.”
