Arbeloa’s Strategic Approach: Building Trust and Unity at Real Madrid

omidbasir- The Maslow Pyramid, or the pyramid of life, represents a psychological theory from the mid-20th century that prioritizes vital needs for personal growth, with the most fundamental needs forming the base for reaching the pinnacle. This concept is relevant to Álvaro Arbeloa’s approach in reconstructing Real Madrid. The coach has opted to stagger the improvements he envisions for the team, having conducted a rapid initial assessment constrained by a demanding schedule that required him to manage four matches within his first twelve days in charge. The hierarchy of needs in Arbeloa’s framework has become evident.

The primary objective is to restore the strength of group unity, which Arbeloa sees as the foundation for a successful future. Building rapport with his players, earning their trust, and improving the relationship between the squad and the coaching staff are crucial steps, especially given the breakdown that contributed to Xabi Alonso’s departure from the managerial role. Kylian Mbappé acknowledged, “I’m not going to play dumb; things happened with Xabi,” subtly referencing the disconnect between players and the former coach, a widely acknowledged issue.

Consequently, Arbeloa has concentrated his initial efforts on normalizing the daily atmosphere at Valdebebas. His focus is on enhancing the work environment and bringing players back onto a path they had strayed from. He employs motivating messages internally and externally, offers unwavering support for his players, and demonstrates a paternalistic approach through gestures of recognition and affiliation. Essentially, his commitment to fostering strong relationships and proximity with his athletes aims to build a foundation of mutual respect and trust. Group management has dominated Arbeloa’s agenda as he establishes the groundwork for a new era at Real Madrid; other aspects of improvement can wait, but embracing the team is vital.

Historically, the locker room has been one of Arbeloa’s strengths as a coach. He possesses an exceptional capacity for leadership, managing the group with a nuanced approach that balances support and defense for his players while demanding loyalty in return—an unwavering expectation. His adept management style resonates with all, fostering a familial atmosphere where players feel a sense of camaraderie, as noted by Marc Cucalón, a former player under Arbeloa at La Fábrica: “He makes every player feel like part of a family, fostering a strong sense of unity regardless of playing time.”

With the foundations of trust and unity laid, Arbeloa will soon turn his attention to advancing through the subsequent levels of his pyramid towards achieving success. Once the team strength and results solidify, he can then focus on tactical and physical enhancements, addressing numerous details kept in reserve that will gradually come to light. Currently eliminated from the Copa, Real Madrid’s consolidation in the Champions League’s top eight, should they secure a victory against Benfica on Wednesday, will allow Arbeloa ample opportunity to work and evolve, with a month free of midweek fixtures ahead.

If they reach the top eight, Madrid will face Rayo Vallecano on February 1, following their last Champions League match against Benfica. This will provide a full week to prepare for the Valencia match, another complete week to recover before hosting Real Sociedad, and a repeat schedule leading into their away fixture against Osasuna. A similar plan will apply when Getafe visits the Bernabéu, culminating in a key stretch at Balaídos. This period is crucial for Arbeloa to accomplish much of the pending work necessary to elevate his Madrid to peak performance.