Vinicius proving untouchable under Arbeloa's Real Madrid reign
The Brazilian winger has played every single minute of Arbeloa's first six matches in charge, highlighting his indispensable status at the Bernabéu.
Vinicius Júnior has cemented his status as Real Madrid’s main man since Álvaro Arbeloa took the reins three weeks ago, with the Brazilian playing every single minute across all competitions.
Arbeloa’s Vini dependency
When Arbeloa stepped into the hot seat at the Bernabéu, he made his intentions crystal clear from day one - get the ball to Vinicius and keep him on the pitch whenever humanly possible. The gaffer’s not been telling porkies either, with Vini featuring for the full 90 in all six matches under the new regime.
Even in periods where squad rotation would be bread and butter for most managers, Arbeloa’s refused to give his number 7 even a moment’s breather:
- Vini travelled to Albacete when Courtois, Bellingham and Mbappé were all given the night off
- Against Monaco, despite the result being in the bag with over 30 minutes remaining, Vini stayed on the pitch hunting for his goal
- The Brazilian eventually found the net but notably avoided any celebratory gestures towards the crowd
Breaking records
This current run of six consecutive full matches without substitution hasn’t happened for Vinicius since three years ago under Carlo Ancelotti, following the Club World Cup final in Morocco through to the Betis match on March 5th.
Even during that previous streak, Vini was never subbed before the 83rd minute across a remarkable 22-game stretch. Should he complete the full match against Benfica in Lisbon (after serving his suspension for the Valencia clash), it would mark the first time in his Madrid career he’s strung together seven complete games without being hooked.
Valencia headache
Arbeloa now faces his first proper tactical puzzle with Vinicius suspended for the trip to Mestalla and Bellingham sidelined through injury. Two of his untouchables unavailable in one go.
Rodrygo, who’s been itching for a chance on the left wing, seems the logical replacement for his compatriot. Filling Bellingham’s boots presents more options - Brahim (who stepped in against Rayo), Camavinga in midfield, or perhaps Valverde finally returning to his natural central position if Trent Alexander-Arnold completes his recovery in time.