Real Madrid

Arbeloa confirms his Real Madrid exit — and all but signals Mourinho’s return

The Real Madrid coach confessed that he knows he won’t be continuing, but left the door open: “Hopefully it’s a see you later and not a goodbye.”

JAVIER GANDUL

Manu de Juan Andy Hall

Update: May 22nd, 2026 05:45 EDT

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Álvaro Arbeloa made it official. In Friday’s press conference ahead of Real Madrid’s final match of the season against Athletic Club, the coach confirmed he will not continue in charge next year. And while he stopped short of naming a successor, he strongly hinted that José Mourinho is the man stepping in. One thing he did make absolutely clear: he will not be part of Mourinho’s staff.

Arbeloa opened by focusing on the match itself: “I want to see a great game, say goodbye to the fans, give them a win. Playing the last home match is always special. I want the Bernabéu to enjoy it.”

When asked whether this was a farewell, he didn’t hide his emotions: “I hope it’s a ‘see you later.’ I’ve always considered Madrid my home. I’ve been part of this club for 20 years. This is my last game this season — I don’t know if it’s my last ever as a Madrid coach. I’ll try to enjoy it and focus on winning.”

Arbeloa confirms his Real Madrid exit — and all but signals Mourinho’s return — Press conference of Álvaro ArbeloaJavier Lizón

On Laporta and the Negreira case

Arbeloa brushed aside comments from Barça president Joan Laporta but didn’t hold back on the broader issue: “He must be referring to the Negreira case… We’re still waiting for a resolution to something so serious that it stained Spanish soccer. Many referees from that era are still active. These things aren’t normal. We have to keep denouncing it.”

On Mourinho — and why he won’t stay

Arbeloa was direct about his future: “I’m not here to talk about possibilities. Mou has a fantastic staff, he’s very well surrounded. If he comes, he’ll come with his people, as he should. There’s no chance I’ll be part of his staff. I’ve spent four months thinking only about Madrid. Now it’s time to think about myself. I’m ready for new challenges.”

Carvajal’s tribute

He spoke warmly about Dani Carvajal, who will receive a tribute during the match: “He’s the model of what a Real Madrid player should be. He laid the first stone at Valdebebas. He’s unique. It’ll be a beautiful day for everyone. He’ll start, and when he’s subbed off, I hope the whole stadium stands up.”

🏆 Gracias, Carvajal! 🏆
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) May 18, 2026

Vinicius absent for personal reasons

“Vinicius has permission from the club for a personal matter. We don’t know if he’ll be available tomorrow.”

On Madrid’s greatest fullbacks

“I’d put Carvajal at the very top. He’s been dominant both attacking and defending. A natural competitor.”

His relationship with the players

“I’m very grateful to them. We’ve had differences — that’s normal — but we solved them the best way possible. I’ve thought more about Madrid than about myself. No regrets.”

⚔️⚽✨ pic.twitter.com/asCaLLwjqi
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) May 20, 2026

His legacy

“I know how the team was when I arrived. If I’d started from the beginning, things would’ve been different. But I did the best I could — not my way, but the best way. I’m happy with what we achieved. I leave with great relationships.”

On the club elections

“There are things I can’t get into. It’s great that candidates step forward. They know where the bar is.”

Final confirmation

When asked directly if he was leaving, Arbeloa answered simply:“Yes.”

Final reflections

“Almost every conversation with the players helped me grow as a coach and as a person. I’ve been where they are — I understand them. I leave grateful after eight years, leaving many friends behind. I hope one day I can return.”