It was expected and it’s now official: Real Madrid confirmed on Tuesday the departure of Álvaro Arbeloa from his position as first-team coach.
The former Madrid defender took charge of the team last January, following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso. He led the squad until the end of the season, achieving a record of 18 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses in 28 matches.
Despite some encouraging performances, Real Madrid’s season ended without a trophy. The club was eliminated in the Copa del Rey in the round of 16 by Albacete, and then in the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Bayern Munich. In the league, FC Barcelona quickly took a decisive lead, preventing any Madrid comeback.
In its statement, the club thanked Arbeloa for his commitment and work. Real Madrid highlighted his loyalty, professionalism, and lasting attachment to the institution, recalling his complete journey within the white house. Before joining the first-team staff, he had progressed through La Fábrica since 2020, managing several youth teams, including the Juvenil A, with which he achieved a national treble.
The statement does not specify whether Arbeloa will remain within the club’s structure. His departure, however, paves the way for a new sporting organization, as the arrival of José Mourinho is rumored in the coming hours.
The club’s statement:
🚨🚨 OFFICIAL! REAL MADRID ANNOUNCES AN AGREEMENT WITH ALVARO ARBELOA 🇪🇸 FOR HIS DEPARTURE!!!! 👋
He is officially no longer the coach of the Merengue. pic.twitter.com/XThweHiVsl
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) June 9, 2026
“Real Madrid CF and Álvaro Arbeloa have reached an agreement to end his time as first-team coach.
Real Madrid warmly thanks Álvaro Arbeloa, who, throughout his journey at the club since joining our training center, has always shown loyalty, commitment, and professionalism. He represents an example of our club’s values.
Real Madrid, which will always be his home, wishes Álvaro Arbeloa and his entire family much success in this new chapter of their lives.”
