The Spaniard faces mounting scrutiny after Fulham collected only two points from their opening six league matches, leaving them at the foot of the table. Saturday’s meeting with Hull City at Craven Cottage is another opportunity to change the mood.
Reports have suggested another defeat could put Arbeloa’s position at risk, but he described the past week as routine when speaking to BBC Sport. He rejected the idea that his own future should dominate the conversation.
“It is not about me, it is about the club, the players and the supporters,” he said.
Fulham have come close to breaking their winless run in recent fixtures, only to let promising positions slip away. Ryan Sessegnon put them ahead against Ipswich Town last weekend, but two late goals turned the match into a 2-1 defeat at Portman Road.
They had also been denied a win against Manchester United before the international break, when a deflected Matheus Cunha goal arrived late. A goalless draw away to Liverpool has offered another indication that Arbeloa’s side can compete, though they have yet to sustain their best level for a full match.
The manager said the players were chasing a result that would reward the people backing them through a difficult start.
“They are looking for the reward and looking for a game where they can get a win for the supporters, they deserve it because of their support. It is important for all of us,” he said.
Arbeloa arrived in the summer on a three-year contract, replacing Marco Silva after a short spell as interim head coach of Real Madrid. The former Liverpool defender was appointed with strong backing from Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez and José Mourinho, whom he played under in Spain.
His start in English football has been difficult in the league, although Fulham have progressed to the last 16 of the Carabao Cup and are due to host Crystal Palace later this month.
Asked if he believed the squad remained committed to his approach, Arbeloa pointed to performances against Ipswich, Manchester United and Liverpool.
“For me, we need to try to keep that level for 90 minutes, that is important,” he said, adding that training had shown him the players’ commitment and focus on the Hull fixture.
Victory would give Fulham a lift before another meeting with a promoted side, as they travel to Championship winners Coventry City next weekend. For now, Arbeloa’s message is that the club’s needs matter more than speculation about his own job.