Alvaro Arbeloa (foto: Getty Images)
Real Madrid has confirmed Álvaro Arbeloa's departure after six months in charge, with José Mourinho expected to take over the team soon.
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Real Madrid has officially announced the departure of Álvaro Arbeloa, bringing an end to his short spell as first-team coach and paving the way for José Mourinho's expected return.
The former defender was appointed as an interim solution following the departure of Xabi Alonso and remained in charge during a transitional period for the Spanish giants.
Now, after several weeks of speculation, all signs point toward Mourinho beginning a new chapter at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Arbeloa's brief spell comes to an end
Arbeloa took charge of Real Madrid in mid-January and oversaw 28 matches across all competitions.
During that period, the team recorded 18 victories, two draws and eight defeats.
Despite some positive results, the club has decided to move in a different direction as it prepares for a major rebuild.
The 42-year-old had previously worked extensively within Real Madrid's academy structure and coached several youth teams before receiving the opportunity to lead the senior squad.
Official club statement
Real Madrid thanked Arbeloa for his contribution in an official statement released on Monday evening.
"Real Madrid and Álvaro Arbeloa have reached an agreement to end his tenure as first-team coach. Real Madrid would like to express its sincere gratitude to Álvaro, who has shown loyalty, dedication, and professionalism throughout his career at the club since joining our youth academy."
"His personality is an example of the values of our club. Real Madrid, which will always be his home, wishes Álvaro Arbeloa and his entire family the best of luck in this new phase of their lives."
No role under Mourinho
Recent reports suggested Arbeloa could remain at the club as part of Mourinho's coaching staff.
However, the former Spain international recently confirmed that he has no intention of becoming an assistant coach and instead wants to pursue his own managerial career.
His next destination remains unclear, his work with Real Madrid's academy teams has earned him a positive reputation within Spanish football.
Mourinho set for Madrid comeback
With Arbeloa's departure now official, attention shifts fully to Mourinho.
The Portuguese coach previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
More importantly, he helped re-establish Real Madrid as a major force in European football during an era dominated by Barcelona.
His return represents one of the most talked-about managerial moves of the year and signals the beginning of a new project under president Florentino Pérez.
Can Mourinho succeed again?
The big question now is whether Mourinho can repeat the success of his first spell.
Real Madrid is expected to be highly active in the transfer market, with several defensive reinforcements already linked with the club.
The Portuguese coach inherits a squad packed with talent but also one that has faced criticism for inconsistency and internal tensions.
His task will be to restore stability, build a winning mentality, and return Real Madrid to the top of both Spanish and European football.