Real Madrid have had a fairly inconsistent season and although Arbeloa is getting the team through, it is expected that at the end of the World Cup, a new coach will arrive at the Santiago Bernabeu.

One of the rumors is that the current United States coach, Mauricio Pochettino, could be an option for Madrid, however, this has generated several criticisms, even from a former United States international.

Former USMNT player distances Pochettino from Real Madrid

One of the biggest critics of this possible move has been former international striker Herculez Gomez. The analyst was blunt in pointing out that Pochettino's profile clashes head-on with the "win or die" philosophy of Madridismo.

When you look at his career, you don't see a serial winner; in fact, it's quite the opposite. I find it shocking that he is even in the orbit of a club like Real Madrid

Herculez Gomez

For the former player, the lack of major trophies in the Argentine's record is a cardinal sin. Although he is credited with leading Tottenham to the Champions League final in 2019, his time at PSG is still seen as his great failure in the elite.

Real Madrid eye Champions League quarter-finals

While rumors continue about Arbeloa's possible replacements, Real Madrid are focusing on the field and in the Champions League they have done much of the work.

The Spanish team thrashed Manchester City 3-0 in the Champions League round of 16 and although anything can happen in the second leg, it seems that qualification for the quarter-finals is already well on track.

🤯🇺🇾 ES UNA LOCURA LO DE FEDERICO VALVERDE, HAT-TRICK EN 41 MINUTOS.

QUÉ PEDAZO DE GOL, POR FAVOR. 🚬pic.twitter.com/pKdsUqadgQ https://t.co/1o94063oMA

— Sudanalytics (@sudanalytics_) March 11, 2026

With Fede Valverde scoring three goals, Real Madrid are looking for their best form and are slowly finding it. Arbeloa's team wants to win the Champions League and for now they are still on track to do so.