In preparation for Mourinho’s return… Álvaro Arbeloa officially announces his departure from Real Madrid

sports|22/5/2026
In preparation for Mourinho’s return… Álvaro Arbeloa officially announces his departure from Real Madrid
Álvaro Arbeloa
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Ahead of Mourinho’s return… Álvaro Arbeloa officially announces his departure from Real Madrid

The coach also delivered a special message of appreciation to star defender Dani Carvajal.

Álvaro Arbeloa, the Spanish coach at Real Madrid, revealed that his time with the club is nearing its end during the press conference ahead of the highly anticipated match against Athletic Bilbao in the final round of La Liga.

“Real Madrid is my home”… Arbeloa bids farewell to the Santiago Bernabéu

Arbeloa confirmed that tomorrow’s match at the Santiago Bernabéu carries deep emotional significance for him, stressing his strong desire to end the season in the best possible way and bring joy to Real Madrid fans.

He said, expressing his feelings: “I hope to see a great match that brings happiness to the fans. The final game at our stadium is always different and holds a very special value.

Real Madrid is my home, where I have spent nearly 20 years. I don’t know for sure if this will be my last match with the club, but I will try to enjoy every moment of it.”

Ending speculation and preparing for a new challenge

The former Spanish star put an end to ongoing speculation about his possible continuation within the club’s coaching staff, announcing that he is ready to take on a new coaching experience away from the club.

He added: “I have been thinking about what is best for the club over the past months more than I have been thinking about myself, and now it is time to take the next step. I feel fully ready to face new challenges in my coaching career.”

Praise for Carvajal and dressing room relationships

During his remarks, Arbeloa also delivered a special tribute to team star Dani Carvajal, praising his long-standing legacy with the club:

  • A Real Madrid icon: He described Carvajal as one of the greatest players in the club’s history, deserving proper recognition as a role model on and off the pitch.
  • Dressing room atmosphere: He spoke about his relationships with the players, acknowledging natural differences in opinions but emphasizing that he always prioritized the club’s interests above all else.

Arbeloa concluded by expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity, saying: “I leave with great gratitude. I will leave behind many friends after eight wonderful years here, and I sincerely hope to return one day.”