Following the dismissal of former coach Xabi Alonso, Real appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as his successor. Arbeloa previously managed the club's youth teams, including the U14 squad from 2020, the U19 team from 2022, and the B team since 5/2025. Real's new coach, Arbeloa, has openly stated that while he draws influence from his former mentor, Jose Mourinho, he will not attempt to fully replicate his style, fearing it would lead to failure.

Arbeloa played for Real from 2009 to 2016. Between 2010 and 2013, he played under Jose Mourinho, a coach renowned for his defensive tactics, discipline, and numerous titles, though also controversial for his public statements and touchline conduct. Mourinho's career includes two Champions League titles, one Europa League, and one Conference League. During his tenure at Real, "the special one" secured a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup.

Coach Arbeloa's introductory press conference at Real on 13/1. Photo: AP

Arbeloa admitted his coaching style draws influence from his former Portuguese mentor. However, he stated he would not fully adopt it at Real. "For me, being coached by Jose Mourinho was an honor", Real's new coach said. "I have a great relationship with him, and he influenced me significantly. But if I try to become him, I will fail miserably."

Arbeloa previously played alongside Alonso. The former Spanish defender stated that Alonso remains a Real legend, despite his departure after only six months as coach. Arbeloa also mentioned speaking with his former teammate after the dismissal and maintaining a positive relationship.

During his tenure at Real, Alonso reportedly faced negative reactions from Vinicius, with other players also said to be dissatisfied with the former Spanish coach's tactics, substitutions, and team selections. When questioned about potential conflicts with Vinicius, Arbeloa responded: "I don't concern myself with hypothetical situations. I am incredibly fortunate to have one of the world's most challenging players to mark. I want to see a Vinicius who enjoys the game and plays with confidence."

Having spent five years coaching Real's youth teams, Arbeloa lauded the club's academy as the best globally. The 42-year-old coach also commended the first-team players for their dedication since the season began, including their recent Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barca. "We possess an exceptional squad, featuring players who have collectively won six Champions League titles, and it appears this is too quickly overlooked", Arbeloa added. "This morning, I conveyed to them that the most fulfilling period of my life was playing for Real. The essence of Real is victory, victory, and victory. That is our DNA, and it is what drives us to fill our trophy cabinets."

Real currently holds the record for 15 European Cup/Champions League titles and 36 La Liga crowns. However, over the past year, the Madrid club has faced a series of defeats against Barca, including 0-4 and 3-4 losses in La Liga, a 2-5 defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final, 2-3 in last season's Copa del Rey final, and another 2-3 in this season's Spanish Super Cup final. Arbeloa's mandate extends beyond improving team performance; he must also reclaim prestige against their rivals and secure silverware.

Thanh Quy (according to Marca)