TA few months into his appointment as Real Madrid’s head coach, former club defender Alvaro Arbeloa says the experience has already been transformative, even if he insists he remains fundamentally the same person.
Speaking to reporters in Real Madrid’s press room ahead of their high-profile clash with Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu, Arbeloa said his first few weeks as manager had been an intensive learning process.
Aurelien Choameny directs Thibaut Courtois in rare shots
Arbeloa admitted that managing one of the most demanding clubs in the world has accelerated his development as a coach. He denied the idea that he had changed personally since taking over the job, but admitted the experience was comparable to completing an advanced course in leadership and tactics.
“I feel like I got a master’s degree.”
When asked how he has evolved since becoming the team’s head coach, Arbeloa said, “There’s no difference.” “In these two months, we can grow and gain more experience with a lot of things that are happening to us. I’m also a person, but two months as Real Madrid coach is like a master’s degree. Every day here is not only a great pleasure, but also a great learning experience.”
The former Spain international now faces one of his biggest early tests on the sidelines as Real Madrid host Manchester City in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League. Arbeloa revealed that he expects a difficult matchup against one of the most tactically sophisticated teams in Europe.
According to the Madrid manager, City’s strength lies not only in their individual talent, but also in their collective strength, developed over several seasons under manager Josep Guardiola. Arbeloa pointed out that Guardiola’s players understand the system so well that they can operate it almost instinctively on the field.
My way of thinking remains the same
Despite the difficulties, Arbeloa stressed that Real Madrid’s mindset remains the same, no matter who the opponent is. The Spanish club has built a reputation for success in European competitions and the new manager insisted his team will go into the game with confidence.
This match will also be Arbeloa’s first opportunity to face Guardiola as manager. The Real Madrid manager said he expected the Manchester City manager to introduce tactical adjustments for the match, something Guardiola is known to make in major European matches.
For Arbeloa, the occasion also has personal meaning. He admitted that nights at the Bernabéu during the Champions League have historically been one of the club’s most memorable moments and the atmosphere will be motivating for both players and coaching staff.
