Arbeloa Backs Camavinga Amid Real Madrid Scrutiny
Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has received the public backing of reserve team coach Álvaro Arbeloa, amid a challenging season for the French international. The 21-year-old, who has been in and out of the starting lineup under manager Xabi Alonso, has struggled for consistent form and has been hampered by minor injuries this term.
Speaking ahead of Madrid's La Liga match against Girona, Arbeloa, who currently coaches the club's Castilla side, offered strong support for the midfielder. According to reports, Arbeloa stated that Camavinga has featured heavily under his management and is considered a key player. 'He has played a lot under my orders, more than at the start of the season,' Arbeloa said, as reported by French media. 'He has been a starter and will be again tomorrow. I consider him an important player for me and for the club.'
The public show of support comes at a crucial time for Camavinga, who has found his playing time and role under scrutiny this season. Despite arriving at the Santiago Bernabéu with significant promise, his 2025-26 campaign has been inconsistent, with the player often being used as a substitute in recent months. However, Arbeloa emphasized the player's resilience and potential for growth. 'He has shown his potential time and again and has the confidence of everyone at the club, and of course, the manager,' the former defender added.
The timing of this endorsement is particularly relevant with the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayern Munich looming. Camavinga is expected to play a crucial role, especially with fellow midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni suspended for the crucial second leg. Arbeloa praised Camavinga's mentality, highlighting his physical attributes and willingness to learn. 'He has an exceptional physique and I am satisfied with his performance,' Arbeloa noted. 'He will be important not only now, but he will remain so in the future.'
This public vote of confidence from a club legend like Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid and Spain defender, is seen as a significant gesture. It underscores the club's internal support for the young Frenchman as they enter a decisive phase of the season, with the team still competing on multiple fronts. Camavinga's ability to step up in the absence of key players like Tchouaméni could be pivotal for Madrid's hopes of securing silverware this season.
