A New Chapter Begins
It is the start of a new age with Real Madrid vs Albacete signifying the managerial debut of a newly appointed manager, Alvaro Arbeloa. After the late departure of Xabi Alonso this week, the former defender enters the dugout in this Copa del Rey Round of 16 game where he should take the club to the quarter-finals and bring back the sanity at the club.
The stakes are very high to the 43-year-old. According to the reports with AS, there is a high possibility of Arbeloa being offered the job on a long-term basis next season in case of a good performance. But he has to do with this initial test without Kylian Mbappé.
New Trinity Emerges
The lack of international duty and injuries causes Arbeloa to have headaches when it comes to immediate selection.
- The Absences: Kylian Mbappé is absent because of a knee problem. Also, the essential defenders Rüdiger, Alexander-Arnold, Mendy, and Militiao were absent from the last training session, and Brahim Diaz is still at AFCON.
- The New Attack: Arbeloa will use an attacking trident of youth without the French superstar. Vinicius Junior will play on the left with the help of 21-year-old sensation Gonzalo Garcia (scorer in the Super Cup) at the centre of the line with a teenager Franco Mastantuono on the right wing.
Vinicius Junior’s Moment
The absence of Alonso puts Vinicius Junior squarely under the limelight. The Brazilian winger, who is said to have fallen out with the previous manager due to his tactics, eventually ended a 19 goal drought in the Super cup loss to Barcelona. At this stage, being the senior figure in attack, it is his duty to guide this young side through example.
History Favors Madrid
History suggests a comfortable night for the hosts. In 14 previous meetings, Real Madrid remain unbeaten against Albacete (11 wins, 3 draws).
NOVA88 Sport News analysts believe this match is the perfect launchpad for Arbeloa. A convincing win in Real Madrid vs Albacete would calm the “noise” surrounding the club and prove that the squad is ready to move forward under new leadership.
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