The Arbeloa effect: Javi García sees 'pleasure' returning to Madrid's play

Former Real Madrid and Benfica midfielder provides rare dual perspective ahead of Champions League showdown, highlighting Arbeloa’s transformative effect on the current Madrid squad.

From player to coach

Javi García has seen football from both sides of the touchline. After hanging up his boots with Boavista in 2022, the Spaniard quickly transitioned to Roger Schmidt’s coaching staff at Benfica, before taking a step back to recharge and study the game more deeply.

The 36-year-old, who came through La Fábrica before spells with Osasuna, Benfica, Manchester City and Zenit, speaks with genuine fondness about his time at both clubs who’ll face off in the Champions League this week.

The Arbeloa connection

García’s relationship with Álvaro Arbeloa goes way back to their days at Real Madrid Castilla, where they shared nearly 60 matches together, including the memorable promotion season.

“He was our captain, not because he was one of the oldest, but because he was a leader,” García recalls of Arbeloa, who he describes as having personality and intelligence that naturally transfers to coaching.

What’s particularly interesting is García’s assessment of Arbeloa’s impact on the current Madrid squad:

“I’m seeing a Madrid that wants to play, wants to have the ball, wants to defend - playing with pleasure. That change comes from Álvaro.”

After watching Madrid’s recent performance against Villarreal, García is convinced “things are going to work” under his former teammate’s guidance.

Benfica memories

García holds special affection for Benfica, describing his time there as “perhaps the three best years at a footballing level that I’ve had.”

Interestingly, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who encouraged his move to Portugal. During Madrid’s pre-season when CR7 had just arrived, he approached García at breakfast after seeing his name in Portuguese papers and advised him: “Without thinking, just go.”

What’s next?

Currently in what he calls “total learning mode,” García is preparing himself for a future in management. He mentions Jürgen Klopp as a reference point but is focused on absorbing different styles and approaches.

For now, this former midfield general who represented both sides of Wednesday’s Champions League clash is enjoying family time while studying the game that gave him so much – but his eyes are clearly set on a return to the dugout when the time is right.