More injury concerns for Real Madrid: Alaba joins Mbappé and Rodrygo on the sidelines
Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed that the Austrian defender will miss the match against Celta in LaLiga.
Real Madrid is navigating one of its most challenging stretches of the season. Just hours before facing Celta de Vigo in Matchday 27 of LaLiga, manager Álvaro Arbeloa sat down with the press to address the elephant in the room: the relentless wave of injuries that has derailed the team's collective rhythm.
While Arbeloa admitted the absences have compromised his tactical vision, he remained firm that the squad still possesses the "arguments" needed to weather the storm.
The "Injury Chain" Impacting Performance
The Merengue boss was candid about the logistical nightmare the medical room has become. He argued that the constant string of setbacks has forced the coaching staff to jump from "Plan A to Plan B" almost weekly, preventing the team from building any real momentum.
- Lack of Stability: Arbeloa noted that it has been nearly impossible to field a consistent starting XI, which directly affects "automatisms" (on-field chemistry and instincts).
- No Excuses: "It’s not an excuse," Arbeloa clarified, while acknowledging it is a decisive factor in the team's general level given the grueling nature of the current calendar.
Protection for the "New Guard": Mastantuono and Huijsen
Arbeloa also took the opportunity to shield two of the club's high-profile young signings who have faced heavy scrutiny lately: Franco Mastantuono and Dean Huijsen. Both arrived as cornerstone "bets" for the future, but their adaptation has been a bumpy road.
The manager reminded critics of their extreme youth and the unique pressure that comes with the white shirt.
"Playing for Real Madrid requires a level of demand that very few clubs in the world can match," Arbeloa stated.
He called for patience and tranquility from the fans, insisting that with time and confidence, both players will become vital pillars of the sporting project.
The Road to Balaídos: Ending the Slump
The timing for this soul-searching is critical. Real Madrid travels to Balaídos having suffered two consecutive defeats in LaLiga—a rare and "uncomfortable" situation for a club of this stature.
Arbeloa warned that Celta de Vigo is in excellent form and possesses a style capable of punishing any opponent. However, his final message was one of defiance: the goal is to "recover sensations" and prove that the team is ready to respond when their backs are against the wall.
