Real Madrid isn't going through its best moment after the resounding 3-0 defeat against Arsenal in the Champions League. Beyond the result that has set off all the alarms in Valdebebas, the real turmoil is brewing inside the locker room. The focus of the tension is none other than a key figure in the coaching staff: the fitness coach.
Antonio Pintus in doubt
Players no longer have the same confidence as before. Not only because of the drop in their performance in important matches, but also due to the accumulation of injuries throughout the current season. Key players have been (and still are) out for months, and some are starting to look in the same direction: the work methods applied on a day-to-day basis.
Antonio Pintus, the historic fitness coach of the white club, is in the eye of the storm. His methodology, based on maximum demand and extreme physical preparation, no longer convinces everyone. Several players, even veterans with influence within the group, believe that this type of workload doesn't fit the current schedule or the physical state of many team members.
The long-term injuries that have plagued the team this season have been the trigger. The relationship between Pintus and part of the locker room has deteriorated over the months. Added to this is the growing discontent in the medical staff, who disagree with some recovery and physical readaptation methods.
Juventus after Antonio Pintus
In this context, the future of Antonio Pintus at the club is more uncertain than ever. The Italian returned in 2021 as one of the main architects of the team's physical success. Now, he might be considering ending his stint at Real Madrid.
Juventus, looking to completely reform its physical structure, has already shown interest in his services. If there isn't a turnaround, the white club could lose one of its key men... but also one of the most questioned internally.
So far, Florentino knows nothing and no decision has been made. But the reality is this: Antonio Pintus generates distrust in the locker room and that's not good. Juventus intends to bring him back and if there's a change of coach at Real Madrid, his definitive departure could be unlocked.