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Rabat – Real Madrid head into the international break in strong form after a 3-2 comeback win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday night, their first league win over their city rivals since September 2022.
The result extends Madrid’s run to five straight wins in all competitions. It also follows their dominant 5-1 aggregate win over Manchester City in the Champions League round of 16, which has added to the positive mood around the team.
For head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, the turnaround is notable. Earlier in the season, Madrid struggled against several of these same opponents under Xabi Alonso. Now, they have beaten teams like Celta Vigo, Elche, City, and Atletico in a short span.
Arbeloa himself had faced doubts after stepping up from the reserve team in January, but recent results have strengthened his position.
Wins against sides coached by Jose Mourinho, Pep Guardiola, and Diego Simeone have changed the narrative around him.
فينيسيوس يعيد التقدم لريال مدريد
ريال مدريد 3 2 أتليتيكو مدريد#الدوري_الإسباني#LaLiga pic.twitter.com/u4Yx4KATJj
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The atmosphere inside the dressing room has also improved. The relationship between the manager and key players has played an important role in that shift, helping translate into better performances on the pitch.
After Sunday’s match, Arbeloa notably addressed the red card shown to Federico Valverde. He said he did not fully agree with the referee’s decision.
“He told me it was excessive force,” Arbeloa said. “I don’t see it that way, but rather as a tackle like many others, low to the ground, with no chance of injuring the opponent.”
Valverde now faces a suspension. The referee’s report described the incident as “kicking an opponent, using excessive force,” which usually leads to at least a two-match ban. Madrid are expected to appeal.
Discipline call for Alexander-Arnold
One of the biggest talking points before kickoff was Trent Alexander-Arnold starting on the bench.
The decision was disciplinary after the England international arrived late to training the day before the match. Arbeloa informed the player directly.
Alexander-Arnold accepted the decision and apologized to the coach, according to reports.
Despite starting on the bench, Arnold made an impact after coming on in the second half, providing the assist for Vinicius Jr’s winning goal in the 72nd minute.
Key returns and squad management
Jude Bellingham also returned to action, coming off the bench for the first time since early February after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Arbeloa hailed the English midfielder’s versatility but admitted it creates a challenge.
“The problem with Bellingham is that he’s very good at doing lots of things,” he said. “When you’re that good, you have to choose what’s best for the team.”
Kylian Mbappe, who is coming back from a knee issue, was again used as a substitute.
“After three weeks, it’s normal to build things up gradually,” Arbeloa said.
The coach also confirmed that Eder Militao is close to returning, with the defender expected to be available for the next league match against Mallorca.
With results improving, confidence rising, and key players returning, Madrid go into the break in a much stronger position than they were just a few weeks ago.
