MADRID — Real Madrid’s pursuit of the La Liga title has hit a significant stumbling block ahead of Sunday’s pivotal trip to the Mestalla. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa, already navigating a delicate period of inconsistent form, has received news that could force a drastic reshuffle of his frontline against Valencia.
The Rodrygo Setback
With Vinícius Júnior serving a suspension and Jude Bellingham sidelined through injury, the onus was expected to fall on Rodrygo to command the attack on the left flank. However, reports from Valdebebas suggest the 25-year-old is a major doubt for the February 8th encounter.
According to Javi Herraez of Carrusel, Rodrygo did not participate in the group training session on Thursday, working indoors instead. The Brazilian winger had only just returned to action, making a substitute appearance in the hard-fought 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano after being sidelined since the Supercopa de España final in January.
Losing Rodrygo would be a bitter pill for Arbeloa to swallow. The forward has shown resilience this season, bouncing back from a difficult summer to contribute three goals and six assists in 26 appearances. Without him, Madrid could be heading into one of the league’s most hostile environments without three of their biggest superstars.
A New-Look Frontline?
The potential absence of both Brazilian wingers leaves Arbeloa with a tactical headache, but one that offers an intriguing solution. If Rodrygo cannot prove his fitness, Kylian Mbappé is expected to vacate the central striker role and move to his preferred position on the left wing—a role he dominated during his record-breaking tenure at PSG.
This shift opens the door for Gonzalo García. The 21-year-old Spanish prodigy has been waiting in the wings and may be handed a massive opportunity to lead the line at the Mestalla.
García has proven he can handle the pressure. Fans will remember his sensational hat-trick in the 5-1 demolition of Real Betis earlier this season when Mbappé was unavailable. Furthermore, his pedigree as the Golden Boot winner at last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup suggests he has the quality to step up when the squad is stretched.
Defensive Management
The concerns aren’t limited to the attack. Defender Raúl Asencio is also managing fitness issues. The medical staff is reportedly treading carefully with the Spaniard; the current plan involves him starting against Valencia but being rested for the subsequent home fixture against Real Sociedad. This rotation is crucial to ensure he is fresh for the upcoming Champions League playoff clash against Benfica.
The Stakes
The pressure on Arbeloa remains high. While the victory over Rayo Vallecano kept Los Blancos within one point of leaders Barcelona, the margin for error is non-existent.
With Barcelona capable of extending their lead to four points if they beat Mallorca on Saturday, Real Madrid cannot afford a slip-up. Arbeloa must now engineer a masterclass with a depleted squad to silence his critics and keep the title charge alive.
