Álvaro Arbeloa’s coaching philosophy shows a clear blend of Diego Simeone’s mid-block compactness, José Mourinho’s transition control and match management, and Didier Deschamps’ pragmatic decision-making.
This young manager, who rose through Real Madrid Castilla, prioritizes game control first and then allows player expression. As a manager, Arbeloa is defensively strong, but in attack he does not allow chaotic freedom. Instead, he gives players freedom within a clear structure. Speed in transition moments, directness into space, and the use of individual quality in the final third are the core elements of his system.
Because of this, he is neither a fully high-pressing coach nor a “park the bus” manager. Knowing when to slow the game down and when protecting the result is the right decision—this game reading is what sets him apart. This is also where his thinking most closely aligns with the pragmatic coaching philosophies of Simeone, Mourinho, and Deschamps.
Real Madrid’s current squad surprisingly fits Arbeloa’s philosophy very well. For a solid defensive structure and game control, players like Militão, Rüdiger, and Huijsen are available. For transition control and pressing triggers, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Camavinga, and a natural game reader like Jude Bellingham—key for match management and pragmatic decision-making—are crucial.
Additionally, for attacking the final third with freedom within structure, Real Madrid have players like Vinícius Jr., Mbappé, and Rodrygo.
However, Mbappé prefers complete freedom, which Arbeloa may not allow. Mbappé will need to fully involve himself in pressing and transitions—only then will Arbeloa be satisfied.