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Arbeloa Takes Blame Amid Massive Player Failings

Alvaro Arbeloa publicly accepts responsibility for Real Madrid's recent poor results, as underperforming players and Champions League struggles persist.

Martina Mincheva image
Martina Mincheva
Jan 30, 2026
1 min read
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Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has deliberately chosen to shoulder the blame for the team’s recent lackluster performances, hoping to boost team spirit and lift the dressing room's morale, according to Cadena SER.

Instead of pointing fingers at individual players, Arbeloa has decided not to criticize his squad publicly after defeats. Yet, the reality remains clear: each loss, including the ones against Albacete in the Copa del Rey and Benfica in the Champions League, primarily stemmed from players underperforming.

Despite this, Arbeloa faces the media and takes full responsibility for the setbacks.

It's all my fault. I take full responsibility.

Alvaro Arbeloa

The recent 2-4 loss to Benfica in the Champions League means Real Madrid will have to go through playoffs again this season, just like last year, to secure a spot in the round of 16.