Alvaro Arbeloa has confirmed he will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season following the club’s disappointing campaign without a major trophy.
The 43-year-old was promoted from Real Madrid B in January after replacing former Liverpool team-mate Xabi Alonso as first-team coach.
However, Madrid are set to finish the season without silverware after ending as runners-up in La Liga and suffering a Champions League quarter-final exit against Bayern Munich.
Arbeloa confirmed his departure during a press conference before Madrid’s final league game against Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.
“It will be my last game this season as coach of Real Madrid,” Arbeloa said.
“I don’t know if it will be the last game of my life as coach of Real Madrid.”
Jose Mourinho Set For Madrid Return
Former Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is expected to replace Arbeloa after entering final negotiations with the Spanish giants.
Mourinho previously managed Madrid between 2010 and 2013 and is currently in charge of Benfica.
Arbeloa also ruled out joining Mourinho’s coaching staff if the Portuguese manager returns to the club.
“Mou has a fantastic technical team, he’s got good people around him,” Arbeloa explained.
“There’s no chance that I would be with him.”
Arbeloa Hopes For Future Return
Despite leaving the role, Arbeloa admitted he still sees Real Madrid as his home after spending almost two decades connected with the club.
The former defender represented Madrid between 2009 and 2016 before later taking up coaching responsibilities within the academy setup.
“I hope it’s a see you later,” he said.
“I’ve always considered this my home.”
Arbeloa added that he now plans to reflect on his future once the season officially concludes.
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