Arbeloa Takes the Helm at Real Madrid

Alvaro Arbeloa, who was a key player at Real Madrid during his tenure under José Mourinho, has drawn parallels to the Portuguese manager regarding his coaching style.

New Appointment Following Defeat

The 42-year-old former defender was named the new head coach on Monday after Real Madrid suffered a defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday.

“I haven’t had a conversation with José yet. It was a privilege to be coached by him,” Arbeloa stated during a press conference.

“I share a strong rapport with him… and his influence on my career is undeniable; he remains a part of me.”

“That said, I intend to be Alvaro Arbeloa. While I do not fear failure, I recognize that trying to emulate José Mourinho would likely lead to a spectacular failure,” he added.

Mourinho, who is now managing Benfica, led Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, securing one La Liga championship amidst a fierce rivalry with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.

Presently, Barcelona holds a four-point advantage over Madrid atop the La Liga standings. Arbeloa’s challenge is to change that trajectory, starting with his first match in charge against Albacete in the Copa del Rey Round of 16 on Wednesday.

Previously serving as the coach of the reserve team and working with the youth setup, Arbeloa emphasized that achieving success is paramount for the storied club.

“This club is all about winning, and that commitment to triumph is crucial to maintain our legacy,” he remarked.

“As a player, I learned these values from my teammates, and my goal is to inspire the fans worldwide while enhancing our trophy collection.”

“This is my mission, my obsession, and my daily life.”

Madrid has not disclosed the length of Arbeloa’s contract as head coach.

“I want to convey that I’ve been part of this club for 20 years, and I will stay at Real Madrid as long as they want me,” Arbeloa expressed.

“This club feels like home to me, and that will never change.”

Kylian Mbappe Missing from Training

Star forward Kylian Mbappe was notably absent from Arbeloa’s first training session on Tuesday in preparation for the upcoming match against Albacete.

After making a late cameo return from a knee sprain during the Super Cup final against Barcelona, it is likely that Mbappe will continue his rehabilitation until facing his former team, Monaco, in the Champions League next Tuesday.

A source from Real Madrid commented that it was “reasonable” for Mbappe to miss training, considering his ongoing knee issues.

Former coach Xabi Alonso had previously acknowledged that including Madrid’s leading scorer in the match against Barcelona was a calculated risk.

Arbeloa mentioned his close friendship with Alonso, recalling their playing days together for both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team.

“Everyone here knows the bond I have with him, the value I place on our friendship, and it’s mutual—always has been and will continue to be,” Arbeloa commented.

Alonso, who was dismissed after less than eight months in charge, shared his reflections on social media, indicating he left the club with a sense of fulfillment.

“Things did not unfold as I had hoped,” Alonso wrote on Instagram.

“Coaching Real Madrid has been both an honor and a significant responsibility. I am thankful to the club, the players, and especially the fans for their trust and support.”

“I depart with respect, gratitude, and pride knowing I gave my all.”