These issues and the team’s reltively poor results have meant focus has turned to head coach Alvaro Arbeloa and his apparent inability to maintain control of the dressing room during this turbulent period.

The former Real defender succeeded Xabi Alonso, who lasted six months in the role, in January.

His lack of senior managerial experience was a talking point from the moment he was appointed, with questions raised over the ability of someone who had only previously worked within the youth set-up to manage established stars such as Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.

This week’s events have validated those concerns for many supporters.

With only four matches remaining this season for Real, Arbeloa’s immediate priority will be to restore stability, refocus the squad and prevent further deterioration in performances and discipline.

While silverware is no longer a realistic target, there remains a need to finish the campaign with some sense of control.

Beyond the short term, however, the focus is already shifting towards the broader structure above him.

There is now pressure on club president Florentino Perez, who faces a major decision after a run of managerial changes that have failed to deliver sustained success.

Three managers. Two seasons. No trophies.

The choice of the next permanent head coach will be pivotal, not only for results on the pitch, but for restoring stability and control over a squad that has appears difficult to manage.

That in turn will repair the image of a club that is receiving uncomfortable public criticism and, they will hope, return them to the top of the club game.