Arbeloa Replaces Alonso as Real Madrid Head Coach

Real Madrid have appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as head coach following the departure of Xabi Alonso by mutual consent.

The decision comes after a turbulent period culminating in a Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona on Sunday, 11 January.

Despite Alonso’s high-profile arrival last summer, internal tensions over tactical changes and a mid-season slump forced the board to act. Arbeloa, a former defender who has progressed through the club’s academy-coaching ranks, is seen as a guardian of the club’s identity.

At his unveiling, he addressed his lifelong connection to the Bernabeu: “On Saturday, I turn 43 and 20 of those years have been at this club. Every day I’m at the best club in the world.”

While the appointment brings continuity, it has been met with fan scepticism regarding Arbeloa’s lack of senior experience. Critics argue the squad’s issues lie in poor midfield planning, rather than coaching.

However, Arbeloa remains focused on immediate results, stating: “This club is about winning, winning, and winning again.”

As the Champions League resumes, the hierarchy hopes his deep understanding of Los Blancos’ values will restore stability to a dressing room reportedly divided by the methods of his predecessor.

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