Speaking on Movistar+, Jorge Valdano highlighted a visible shift in the squad’s mentality under Álvaro Arbeloa.
“Arbeloa is working very well on the confidence and motivation of the players,” Valdano said, pointing to a psychological reset within the group.
He contrasted the current environment with the final stretch of Xabi Alonso’s tenure. “That didn’t happen with Xabi Alonso,” Valdano added, suggesting the issue was not tactical alone but emotional and managerial.
Valdano’s remarks reflect a broader narrative, that Arbeloa’s immediate focus has been restoring belief rather than overcomplicating systems. Early performances suggest players are responding, showing more intensity and clarity in their roles.