Vinicius was being 'devalued' under previous regime, claims Gómez in defence of Arbeloa appointment
Roberto Gómez backs Real Madrid's appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa and criticises previous treatment of Vinicius Jr in passionate Radio MARCA appearance.
A staunch defence of Real Madrid’s appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa and criticism of how Vinicius Jr was previously handled has emerged from journalist Roberto Gómez during his appearance on Radio MARCA’s La Tribu show.
Arbeloa appointment ‘spot on’
Gómez was absolutely adamant that Madrid have made the right call in appointing Arbeloa, a man he’s followed since his early days at the club. The journalist clearly has a soft spot for the former defender, recalling their first interview together and highlighting his impressive trophy cabinet as a player.
“It’s a great decision to make him Real Madrid manager,” Gómez insisted, pointing to Arbeloa’s intimate knowledge of the club’s structure and culture as vital credentials for the role.
According to Gómez, this appointment comes at a crucial moment when the club had been showing:
- Poor image on the pitch
- Questionable decision-making
- Damaged competitiveness
Florentino’s course correction
The club president didn’t escape mention either, with Gómez backing Florentino Pérez for “doing well” and acknowledging when changes were needed. He reckoned Madrid had been giving off small club energy in recent matches, particularly with overly defensive first-half approaches that weren’t befitting of Los Blancos’ stature.
Vinicius deserves better
Perhaps the most passionate segment of Gómez’s analysis centered on Vinicius Jr, who he believes was being seriously mistreated under the previous regime.
“What was being done with Vinicius was beyond the pale,” Gómez declared, suggesting the Brazilian star’s value was being deliberately diminished despite being an “absolute starter” and crucial club asset.
He even predicted that Vini’s contract renewal will be announced imminently, while also taking aim at sections of the Bernabéu faithful who’ve whistled players. For Gómez, this “ugly habit” needs binning off sharpish, especially with crucial league fixtures on the horizon.
It’s clear Gómez believes the appointment represents a return to proper Madrid values - protecting their crown jewels like Vinicius while appointing someone who understands the club’s DNA in Arbeloa. The proof, as they say, will be in the pudding.