News Focus
- Arbeloa confirms exit after trophy-less spell in charge of Los Blancos
- French captain and former boss clashed during difficult five-month reign
- Pair exchange respectful Instagram messages to close turbulent chapter
- Several first-team stars including Bellingham and Vinicius post farewell tributes
Real Madrid closed their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Athletic Club at the Bernabeu on Saturday. The match marked the end of an era for several key figures at the Spanish giants.
Dani Carvajal and David Alaba bid farewell to supporters on the pitch following their final appearances for the club. However, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa opted for a quieter departure away from the spotlight.
The former defender announced his exit before kick-off against Athletic. He took charge in January after replacing Xabi Alonso but failed to secure any silverware. Reports suggest the dressing room became strained during his short tenure.
Kylian Mbappe publicly criticised Arbeloa during the latter’s time in charge. The tension between the pair dominated headlines in recent months. Yet both men have now moved to heal the rift.
The France captain posted a farewell message on Instagram wishing Arbeloa success. The outgoing manager responded with warm praise for his former player.
“Thank you so much, Kylian,” Arbeloa wrote. “I will always brag that I coached such an extraordinary football player with unparalleled talent.”
He added motivational words about resilience. “Hard times don’t last forever, but strong people do,” he stated.
Only a handful of Madrid players shared public tributes to the departing coach. Antonio Rudiger, Brahim Diaz, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior all posted messages.
Arbeloa replied to each star individually. He described Bellingham as “a born leader, an exceptional professional and a wonderful person”. The coach told Vinicius that serving as his manager “has been an honour”.