Álvaro Arbeloa prepares Real Madrid for the league clash against Valencia

Real Madrid is entering a definitive crossroads in the second half of the 2026 season. Under the leadership of Álvaro Arbeloa, the "Merengues" are desperately seeking to close the gap on FC Barcelona in the La Liga standings while maintaining their focus on the Champions League. This Sunday, the title race heads to one of the most hostile environments in world football: Mestalla.

A clash against Valencia is never just another game for Real Madrid. Historically, the "Che" squad has been a "black beast" for Madrid’s superstars, from Kylian Mbappé to Vinícius Júnior. However, this trip to the Mediterranean coast carries a heavier burden than usual due to a decimated roster and a toxic atmospheric history.

Álvaro Arbeloa did not sugarcoat the reality of the task at hand. Recognizing that Mestalla is one of the stadiums where Real Madrid has struggled most in recent years, the manager highlighted that the difficulty comes from both the pitch and the stands.

"Valencia has great squads, players, and coaches," Arbeloa stated. "It is a city where we feel very loved by Madridistas, but every time Madrid goes there, there is a tremendous atmosphere with a full stadium. For every team, beating Real Madrid is one of the challenges of the year. For Valencia, it certainly will be, and we know the difficulty will be at its maximum."

The manager’s concerns are rooted in recent history. Mestalla has become a flashpoint for social and sporting tension, specifically regarding Vinícius Jr., who has faced deplorable racial abuse in past visits. While the club hopes for a sporting spectacle, the "dangerous" atmosphere Arbeloa alluded to remains a primary concern for the safety and focus of his players.

The tactical puzzle for Arbeloa has become even more complex following the latest medical reports. Real Madrid will travel to Valencia without two of its most explosive offensive weapons: Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes.

As previously reported, Rodrygo is sidelined with hamstring tendonitis, while Bellingham continues his lengthy recovery process. These absences leave the frontline "hollowed out," forcing Arbeloa to lean heavily on Kylian Mbappé and perhaps provide a rare starting opportunity for Brahim Díaz or the young sensation Endrick.

"I will use all the players I have at my disposal in the best way to win the game," Arbeloa explained during his pre-match press conference. "It’s not just about putting out the best XI, but the best XI for each specific match. We have players who can perform well in many positions. Everyone has a place where they feel most comfortable, but they are all eager to help the team."

Beyond the immediate game plan, Arbeloa addressed the team's recent dip in form and the physical struggles plaguing the squad. Working alongside the legendary physical trainer Antonio Pintus, the coaching staff is implementing an "individualized" training regime to stem the tide of injuries.

"Our dedication will be at its maximum to get the most out of the players and continue improving tactically," Arbeloa noted. "Pintus is doing the same in his area. In a few weeks, we will know the results of the individualized physical tests. We will keep working every week we have ahead of us."

For Real Madrid, Sunday is not just about three points; it is a test of character. In a stadium that demands perfection, Arbeloa’s "Plan B" must prove that the badge is bigger than the names on the injury list if they hope to keep their title dreams alive in 2026.