Real Madrid's new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa during the press conference held after the training of the team held at Valdebebas Sports Complex of Madrid, Spain on 13 January 2026 to prepare their next King's Cup round of 16th match against Albacete upcoming 13 January 2026. EFE/JJ Guillen
Real Madrid's new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa during the press conference held after the training of the team held at Valdebebas Sports Complex of Madrid, Spain on 13 January 2026 to prepare their next King's Cup round of 16th match against Albacete upcoming 13 January 2026. EFE/JJ Guillen

Arbeloa takes over as Real Madrid coach after Alonso exit

Madrid, Jan 13 (EFE).- Álvaro Arbeloa was presented as Real Madrid’s new head coach on Tuesday, following Xabi Alonso’s departure after the Supercopa final defeat to Barcelona on Monday.

During his presentation, Arbeloa said that it was “a special day” for him, and that he was “aware of the responsibility” of the position, which he is facing “with great enthusiasm”.

Real Madrid's Institutional Relantionships director Emilio Butragueno (L) presents Real Madrid's new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa (R) during the press conference held after the training of the team held at Valdebebas Sports Complex of Madrid, Spain on 13 January 2026 to prepare their next King's Cup round of 16th match against Albacete upcoming 13 January 2026. EFE/JJ Guillen

«For me, every day I’ve been part of Real Madrid has been special, and today is no exception. I am 42 years old and will turn 43 on Saturday. Twenty of those years have been spent here at the best club in the world, and every day has been special. Today is one of those days, of course. I am aware of the responsibility I have and the wonderful undertaking and task ahead of me. I am facing it with great enthusiasm,» he said.

The new Real Madrid coach also mentioned his good relationship with Alonso.

«Yesterday, I spoke with Xabi Alonso. You all know how much I appreciate him and our friendship, and that will continue to be mutual,” he added.

Alonso joined Real Madrid last summer, signing a three-year contract.

According to a statement released by the club on Monday, both parties reached a mutual agreement to end their contract. EFE

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