Real Madrid’s Stunning Demand for Álvaro Arbeloa’s Future Hinges on Kylian Mbappé’s Next Move in 2026-27 Season

Real Madrid, still fueled by the brilliance of Kylian Mbappé—who’s smashed in 38 goals this season—are pushing hard both in LaLiga and the Champions League. Yet, there’s a nagging feeling around the club. Álvaro Arbeloa, the man at the helm, hasn’t completely won over the faithful. The whispers about his future? They’re pretty loud. While his contract reportedly runs through next season, his job seems to hinge on something more than just tenure—it’s all about the trophies, with LaLiga and especially the Champions League as the ultimate tests. Things get even murkier when you consider the team’s ongoing midline wobble and shaky defense. Still, Arbeloa’s strategic gamble on shifting Trent Alexander-Arnold into midfield points to some inventive thinking—even if the next Champions League clash against Benfica might be the real turning point. Meanwhile, somewhere behind the scenes, Real Madrid are already plotting a roster shakeup for 2026–27, eyeing a quartet of marquee signings and potential exits of big names. It’s a high-stakes game on and off the pitch, and the coming months could mean a big reset for Los Blancos. LEARN MORE

Led by Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid have managed to remain highly competitive. With 38 goals to his name, the Frenchman has driven the team in the race for the top spot in LaLiga while also pushing for success in the UEFA Champions League. Despite this, Álvaro Arbeloa’s work has not been entirely convincing, raising doubts about his continuity. For this reason, Los Blancos have reportedly set clear conditions for the coach to remain in charge for the 2026–27 season.

According to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, people close to Álvaro Arbeloa claim that he has a contract with the club until the end of next season. However, Real Madrid have declined to comment on the Spaniard’s contractual situation. In fact, his continuity as head coach has reportedly been tied to results: winning LaLiga would earn him credit, but lifting the Champions League would be the definitive benchmark to secure his future.

Despite Álvaro Arbeloa leading Real Madrid to a solid run of results, he continues to raise serious doubts within the team. With an unconvincing midfield, the coach still struggles to find balance in the lineup. In addition, defensive stability has been nonexistent, leaving Dean Huijsen performing at a noticeably lower level compared to the start of the season. As a result, questions emerge over whether keeping Álvaro is truly the definitive solution.

Far from everything being negative, Álvaro Arbeloa appears to be identifying Trent Alexander-Arnold as a key piece in stabilizing the midfield. Although the Englishman naturally starts as a right-back, the coach pushes for him to move into midfield, where he can organize game in a brilliant manner. After shining against Real Sociedad, he is expected to start again against Benfica in the Champions League, where a defeat could ultimately decide the coach’s future.

Alvaro Arbeloa, Head Coach of Real Madrid, congratulates Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid for scoring.

Real Madrid are reportedly targeting four blockbuster signings

While Álvaro Arbeloa’s future remains uncertain, Real Madrid are already strategizing for the 2026–27 season. With this proactive approach, they supposedly plan to facilitate the departures of players like David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dani Carvajal. Furthermore, another player may also leave, creating opportunities to incorporate fresh talent. Consequently, Los Blancos reportedly aim to make four new signings.

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According to Christian Blasco of Diario Sport, Los Blancos have decided to target two center-backs. Although names such as Ibrahima Konaté, Castello Lukeba, and Jacobo Ramos have been mentioned, no final decisions have been made yet regarding the definitive targets. At the same time, the club has also decided to strengthen the right-back position, with the continuity of David Jiménez from Real Madrid Castilla emerging as a strong possibility.

Far from limiting their plans to those positions, Real Madrid are also reportedly determined to sign a playmaking midfielder. Given the difficulty of signing world-class players due to their contracts, the club has chosen to look for a less high-profile option with differential potential, with Kees Smit emerging as the favored choice, Diario Sport reveals. With this in mind, Los Blancos are aiming for a rebuild next season.