Alvaro Arbeloa confirms Real Madrid exit after brief spell as coach ahead of Jose Mourinho's return

Arbeloa leaves after difficult spell in charge

After a spell in charge of the Madrid B team, Arbeloa stepped into the role in January following the

Arbeloa thanks players and club officials

The former Spain international reflected positively on his time at the club despite the disappointing results and thanked both the squad and the club hierarchy for their support. Instead of returning to his post at Madrid B or with the academy, he has opted to part ways after a long association with the club.

"Hopefully, it’s a 'see you later' because I have always considered this my home," Arbeloa said at a press conference ahead of his last game in charge. "I have been part of Real Madrid for 20 years in many roles, and I will always consider it my home. It’s clear that this will be my last match this season as coach of Real Madrid, but I don’t know if it will be the last of my life as a Real Madrid coach.

"I leave Madrid with immense gratitude toward my players. They’ve made me better, allowed me to enjoy every day, taught me so much, and made me a better coach today than I was back on January 12th or 13th. I’m also very grateful to the president and to Jose Angel for the opportunity they gave me, and to everyone involved with the first team.

"I leave Real Madrid thankful because over the past eight years, I’ve been able to get to know the club better. I’ve dealt with so many people, and I leave having made many friends, very happy, and I hope I can return someday."

Mourinho expected to replace Arbeloa

Arbeloa’s announcement comes as Mourinho edges closer to a

"I’m not here to talk about possibilities," he said. "In Mou’s case, I think he has a fantastic coaching staff, as good as he is, and I think he is very well surrounded. If he comes to Real Madrid, he will do so with his coaching staff, as it should be. There is no possibility that I could be part of it."

Arbeloa targets next managerial opportunity

Los Blancos are now expected to move quickly to finalise Mourinho’s appointment as the club begins preparations for a major rebuild ahead of next season. Meanwhile, Arbeloa's future remains unclear beyond Saturday's home game against Athletic Club.