he real Madrid go through a moment of maximum tension that are rarely remembered in Valdebebas. With the last minute injury of Asencio, Arbeloa already has ten down Looking ahead to tonight’s game against Elche. A limit scenario that also arrives at the worst possible moment on the calendar: with the return of the round of 16 against the city of manchester on the immediate horizon and the derby against Athletic.
The accumulation of setbacks has ignited all alarms in Valdebebas. Concern has been established within the coaching staff just before making decisions that may be transcendental for the immediate future of the team. A real peak of panicin which each movement must be measured with a magnifying glass so as not to aggravate a situation that is already delicate.
With this panorama, Arbeloa decided to quickly take action. During yesterday’s training, the coach organized an emergency meeting with several of the heavy weights available from the locker room: Tchouaméni, Rüdiger, Valverde and Vinicius. Four fundamental pillars within the team and, at the same time, players whose physical load must be managed to the millimeter at such a demanding time of the season.
Vinicius speaks with Tchouaméni at one point during the match against Celta.
Take risks… or not
The objective of the meeting was clear: know first-hand the physical sensations of each one before making any decision regarding tonight’s game. Arbeloa I needed to know to what extent they could take risks or if, on the contrary, it was advisable to protect them thinking about a week that can mark a good part of the team’s direction. The margin has been reduced to a minimum.
I only have players who have raised their hands ready to make an effort again. They are very committed people
“I only have players who have raised their hands ready to make an effort again. They are very committed people and we know how important the game is,” Arbeloa said in the preview. That is precisely the message that the coach has found within a locker room that has absolute commitment and who perfectly understands the critical moment that the team is going through. But, despite this predisposition, fear remains inevitable. Fear that the list of casualties will continue to grow. Fear of another piece falling from a board that already wobbles every now and then.