Albacete is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to welcome the Real Madrid team led by new head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, marking a significant moment 21 years in the making. The Madrid squad arrived after a swift 50-minute flight, touching down at 1:54 PM. The anticipation is palpable as fans recall the last match where Real Madrid played in Carlos Belmonte, a memorable encounter that ended in a 1-2 defeat against Albacete.
This time, the Madrid side is not just different in terms of players, but also in leadership. Arbeloa is taking the reins, opting to rest several key players including Courtois, Rüdiger, Tchouameni, Bellingham, Rodrygo, and the star striker Mbappé. Instead, he has chosen to incorporate a core group of seven young talents from the club’s academy into the matchday squad. These decisions send a clear message of trust in the younger players while managing the fatigue of the regulars.
The excitement surrounding Real Madrid’s arrival was reflected in the frenzy outside the Bossh Alicia hotel, where over 300 fans gathered, holding banners and chanting songs. Many of them expressed their hopes and dreams of an upset, with supporters like young fan Nico declaring his mixed loyalties, cheering for Albacete but still showing admiration for Madrid.
As the team alighted from the bus, chants echoed around them, with particular enthusiasm directed at Vinicius, who responded warmly to the fans’ calls. Arbeloa was the center of attention, making a strong impression in his debut as manager, backed by fitness trainer Pintus. Meanwhile, a separate meeting of club executives took place at Gran Hotel de Albacete, where Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was notably absent.
Tonight, the Copa del Rey round of 16 begins with hope for both teams. Arbeloa’s strategy to prioritize youth while managing the experienced players points towards a promising future for Real Madrid as they face this crucial match. The excitement and anticipation speak volumes about the significance of this event, with fans eagerly waiting for 9:00 PM when the action finally kicks off.