Helguera blames Arbeloa for Real Madrid struggles

Former Real Madrid defender Ivan Helguera has criticized Alvaro Arbeloa in an interview with Flashscore. Helguera described Arbeloa’s role as detrimental to the club’s recent poor season. The former defender did not provide further elaboration on his remarks.

Real Madrid finished 12th in La Liga last season, their lowest position in decades. Helguera’s comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of the club’s leadership and performances. Arbeloa, now a club ambassador, has not responded publicly to the criticism.

Helguera served as a player and later assistant coach at Real Madrid. His career included 317 appearances for the club between 1999 and 2007. Arbeloa, a full-back, played 226 matches for Real Madrid from 2009 to 2016.

The club has yet to comment on Helguera’s statements. Real Madrid’s next La Liga match is scheduled for August 17 against Athletic Bilbao. The season opener marks the start of a new campaign under head coach Carlo Ancelotti.