Alvaro Arbeloa Leaves Key Players Out of Final La Liga Match

Real Madrid will conclude the 2025-26 La Liga season with a home game against Athletic Club this weekend. Manager Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed that several first‑team players will be omitted, including long‑term absentees Eder Militao and Rodrygo Goes. The campaign has been described as disappointing, with the club falling short of its objectives. A positive finish is sought to restore morale before the season ends. The fixture marks the final round of league action for both sides, offering an opportunity for Athletic Club to test a weakened Real Madrid lineup. The match will be played at the Santiago Bernabéu. Arbeloa stressed the need to protect key squad members ahead of the 2026 World Cup. By limiting playing time, the coach aims to minimise injury risk for players likely to feature in the tournament. In addition to Militao and Rodrygo Goes, other players remain unavailable due to injury or rest, though the club did not disclose further names. The reduced squad will rely on depth to compete. Real Madrid hopes the result, even if achieved with a rotated side, will provide a morale boost and a respectable finish to the season. The outcome will also influence preparations for the upcoming international calendar.