It was an open secret, and now Real Madrid has officially confirmed it: Álvaro Arbeloa will no longer remain as coach of the team.
“Real Madrid and Álvaro Arbeloa have reached an agreement to end his tenure as coach of the first team,” the club announced in a statement on Tuesday evening.
This now makes official what had been clear for some time. Arbeloa was unable to turn things around for the Royal Club. The former fullback took over the reins from Xabi Alonso during this chaotic season and failed to steer the team into calmer waters. The title-starved Royals failed to win a single trophy this season, lagging far behind FC Barcelona. On top of that, there were repeated off-field controversies far removed from the pitch.
“Real Madrid is very grateful to Álvaro Arbeloa, who has consistently demonstrated loyalty, dedication, and professionalism throughout his entire career at the club, ever since he joined our youth academy,” the statement continued. He is a model of our club’s values,” the club statement continued. “Real Madrid, which will always be his home, wishes him and his entire family the best of luck in this new chapter of his life.”
Mourinho is now expected to arrive
Much like Arbeloa’s departure, his successor is also an open secret. Real Madrid will bring back José Mourinho; this has been clear at least since the re-election of President Florentino Pérez. As reckless as this decision may seem, it may not be at all.
The Portuguese coach is thus beginning his second tenure with the Royals. He previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. With the Blancos, Mourinho won the Spanish Cup in 2011 and the Spanish league title in 2012. With his charisma and proven expertise, he is now expected to lead the capital club back to its former glory. After all, the proud Royals certainly cannot afford another season without a title.