BREAKING: Arbeloa bids farewell to Real and confirms Real's talks with Mourinho
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Real Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa officially confirmed at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Sevilla clash that he will leave his post at the end of the season.
Details: Taking charge of the team in a critical moment, the 43-year-old tactician reflected on his four-month stint at the helm of Los Blancos. Arbeloa, who has spent a total of 20 years within the Madrid club's structure, steps down from the managerial post with his head held high.
"I came here as a coach from the third division, and I'm leaving as a La Liga manager who led the team in Champions League matches. These four months have been an incredible experience and an amazing learning curve for me. I'm leaving with a completely clear conscience," said Arbeloa.
The coach acknowledged that the toughest and most painful part of working in Madrid is always the pressure that comes with a lack of trophies, but he always felt the genuine support of the fans.
The media was especially drawn to Arbeloa's comments on the rumors surrounding the imminent appointment of José Mourinho, whose representatives have already arrived in Madrid for final negotiations. Álvaro, who played under the Portuguese manager in the early 2010s, wholeheartedly endorsed his former mentor's candidacy. He categorically denied speculation that the current atmosphere in the squad is unmanageable and stressed that "The Special One" is exactly who the club needs.
"For me, as a former player and a Madridista, Mourinho is number one. I thought so a month ago and I'll always think so. He is and always will be 'one of us.' If he takes over Real next season, I'll be incredibly happy to see him here, at home," Arbeloa concluded, effectively passing the torch to the Portuguese master.
Reminder: Real could finalize a deal with José Mourinho as soon as today.
