Real Madrid coach Arbeloa confirms departure at season's end

Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed Friday that he will depart Real Madrid at the conclusion of the season. The 43-year-old coach made the announcement at a news conference ahead of the club's final La Liga match Saturday against Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabéu.He thanked Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez for the opportunity and acknowledged the people surrounding the first team.

Arbeloa was promoted to the head coaching role in January, replacing Xabi Alonso. His tenure has coincided with a difficult campaign in which Real Madrid failed to win any trophies. The season has been marked by recent poor results and internal political pressure within the club, particularly as presidential elections approach.

In his remarks, Arbeloa reflected on his eight years of involvement with Real Madrid, noting that he has come to know the club better during this period and has formed many friendships within the organization.

When asked about the possibility of joining incoming manager José Mourinho's staff, Arbeloa ruled out that option. He noted that Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, will bring his own technical team to the club. "Mou has a fantastic technical team, he's got good people around him. If he comes to Madrid he will come with his team," Arbeloa explained.

Regarding the possibility of returning to Real Madrid in the future, Arbeloa expressed openness, adding that he has always considered Madrid his home.

Saturday's match against Athletic Bilbao will be Arbeloa's final game in charge of Real Madrid this season. When asked whether it might be his last match as the club's coach, he left the door open.

Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, is in final negotiations to take the position at Real Madrid. The appointment is expected to be confirmed pending the outcome of the club's presidential elections.