Rumors have surfaced regarding the possibility of Álvaro Arbeloa remaining on Real Madrid’s coaching staff next season, but as an assistant to Portuguese manager José Mourinho.
All sources agree that Arbeloa will not continue with Real Madrid after his appointment last January, succeeding Xabi Alonso, following his failure to win any domestic or European titles.
President Florentino Pérez is personally searching for Real Madrid’s new coach, and it appears that Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, is the frontrunner to return to the Santiago Bernabéu for a second stint.
The latest reports indicate that Pérez and his entourage appreciate Arbeloa’s work and are keen for him to remain at Real Madrid. The initial plan was for him to return to coach Real Madrid Castilla, the team he managed for approximately two years before promoting him to the first team.
However, the latest idea is for Arbeloa to remain with the first team, working as Mourinho’s assistant. His familiarity with the inner workings of the Bernabéu and his deep understanding of Kylian Mbappé’s teammates would be a valuable asset to the Special One in his new role.
Arbeloa has a close relationship with Mourinho dating back to his time as a player under the Portuguese manager at Real Madrid. Just months ago, Mourinho praised him highly, describing him as a promising coaching talent. The former right-back, in turn, emphasized that Mourinho is a true mentor to him in the world of coaching.
Despite their cordial relationship, it’s unlikely Arbeloa would accept a second-in-command role at Real Madrid now. Furthermore, his strained relationships with players like Dani Carvajal, Raúl Asensio, and Dani Ceballos make his departure the best option for all parties, regardless of any other advantages he might offer Mourinho.
