Alvaro Arbeloa and Jude Bellingham Hold Special Meeting Ahead of Real Madrid’s Clash With Benfica

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa reportedly held a special meeting with Jude Bellingham ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Benfica in the Champions League. 

Arbeloa wanted to discuss Bellingham’s performance in his system and give him instructions for the upcoming match.

It is an important match for Los Blancos, as their hopes of securing a Top 8 spot depend on the outcome of the match. A win would guarantee a place in the Round of 16, whereas a defeat could see them drop out of the Top 8.

If they finish in ninth or below, they would have to participate in a two-legged play-off in February, which would derail Real Madrid’s special recovery plan for Dean Huijsen.

Arbeloa Holds Special Meeting With Bellingham Ahead of Real Madrid vs Benfica

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa wanted to go through the details of Jude Bellingham’s position for the crucial match against Benfica and possibly beyond.

Under Arbeloa, Bellingham has played in a hybrid role. With Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. firing up top, he no longer needs to play as a finisher. He also does not need to play out wide on the left wing.

Arbeloa wants Bellingham to operate on the left channel, but is giving him the freedom to choose his actions. The Englishman must defend the left flank but has permission to venture up the field when on the ball.

⚪️ Arbeloa: “A few days ago, 48 hours after a game, I went to Bellingham, and I told him: Jude, stop running so much!”.

“He doesn’t stop running, it’s crazy. I am honored to train such a top player”. pic.twitter.com/kEIv6mVOkb

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 27, 2026

The numbers prove that Bellingham has thrived in the role. He not only scored one goal in the 6-1 routing of AS Monaco last week, but he also impressed with his defensive work rate. Both against Monaco and Villarreal, Bellingham was Real Madrid’s top ball-winner.

During the meeting, Arbeloa acknowledged the sacrifices Bellingham was making for the team and praised him, saying, “You’re interpreting it [new instructions] very well.”

Arbeloa Praises Bellingham for His Commitment and Leadership

In the first half of the season, Jude Bellingham received criticism for his performances. One Spanish YouTuber even alleged that he drank too much and hence his output was below par.

However, Bellingham has seemingly reinvented himself in the last few weeks, and Alvaro Arbeloa has nothing but admiration for the former Borussia Dortmund man.

Jude Bellingham on IG: “Always together.” pic.twitter.com/XsbYvlAZsS

— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) January 27, 2026

In the press conference ahead of the game against Benfica, the Real Madrid manager said:

“From day one, I’ve seen a player with exceptional quality and abilities. Everyone knows that. But beyond his quality, I’ve seen a leader, a player who wants to be an example.

“The other day, I had to tell him to stop running. His level, his commitment, his leadership… I’m very proud to have a player like him.”

While his performances have won fans over, Bellingham received criticism for his ‘drinking’ celebration after the goal against Monaco. However, the 22-year-old appeared unapologetic after the incident. He even doubled down on his joke by posting an image of his celebration with the caption “Cheers”.