Alvaro Arbeloa has confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid at the end of the current season, opening the door for Jose Mourinho’s possible return to the Santiago Bernabeu.
Arbeloa’s Tenure and Challenges
The 43‑year‑old took over as head coach of the senior side in January after promoting from Real Madrid B, replacing his former teammate Xabi Alonso. His time in charge has been marked by a disappointing campaign that saw the club finish without a major trophy.
Mourinho’s Imminent Return
Jose Mourinho, currently leading Benfica, is reportedly in final negotiations with Madrid for a second stint as head coach. He previously managed the Los Blancos from 2010 to 2013, delivering a La Liga title and a Copa del Rey victory.
Arbeloa on Mourinho’s Staff and His Own Future
Speaking ahead of the final La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao, Arbeloa ruled out the possibility of staying on as part of Mourinho’s backroom team. He said, “Mou has a fantastic technical team, he’s got good people around him, if he comes to Madrid he will come with his team. There’s no chance that I would be with him. Then, my future… from Monday I’ll think about that.”
Season Outlook and Personal Reflection
Real Madrid are set to finish as La Liga runners‑up, marking a second consecutive season without silverware. Their UEFA Champions League journey also ended in the quarter‑finals after a loss to Bayern Munich. Arbeloa, who spent seven years as a player with the club between 2009 and 2016, added that he hopes his departure is not permanent: “I hope it’s a see you later… I’ve always considered this my home, I’ve belonged to Madrid for 20 years in various roles. It will be my last game this season as coach of Real Madrid, I don’t know if it will be the last game of my life as coach of Real Madrid. We never know. I’ll try and enjoy it and try to get the win.”
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