Real Madrid could be heading into the summer with more than just transfer decisions to make.
A worrying update from Guillermo Rai, as relayed by Madrid Zone, has revealed growing frustration inside the dressing room, particularly among the Spanish players, regarding the management of Alvaro Arbeloa.
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The issue, as reported, has grown to the extent that most of Real Madrid’s Spanish players ‘cannot stand’ Arbeloa anymore.
What’s the reason?
As per the information, a section of the squad feels that Arbeloa is heavily favouring certain key players, giving them consistent minutes regardless of performance, while others are being overlooked.
This feeling has reportedly been building over time, but recent weeks have made things worse.
Even with the season effectively decided, some players expected more rotation and opportunities.
Instead, they believe the same group of “untouchable” players continues to dominate selection, leaving others with little to no role.
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In that context, two names stand out in this situation, namely, Dani Carvajal and Dani Ceballos.
Both have found themselves on the wrong side of these decisions, and their frustration is said to reflect a wider mood within that group.
A distressed ‘Dani duo’
Ceballos and Carvajal are certain to leave Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Carvajal’s case is linked to competition, as the rise of Trent Alexander-Arnold has pushed him out of the starting role, and he has struggled to regain his place.
With his contract nearing its end, the situation now looks difficult to recover.
Ceballos’ situation is even more direct. After returning from injury at the start of April, the midfielder has not played a single minute.
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That lack of involvement has reportedly damaged his relationship with Arbeloa, and he is now expected to leave the club.
Despite having a contract until 2027, Ceballos already sees this as his final season in Madrid.
Sources close to the dressing room describe a clear feeling among some players that they are not being treated on equal terms.
This kind of tension can have a serious impact on team unity, especially at a time when the players are looking for consistency.
Simply put, if certain players feel sidelined or ignored, it can quickly affect performances and morale.
