New Real Madrid Coach: 'If I Imitate Mourinho, I Will Fail Miserably'

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed he intends to carve out his own route at Real Madrid after taking over from Xabi Alonso, stressing that mimicking Jose Mourinho’s approach results solely in defeat.

Alvaro Arbeloa officially appointed as Real Madrid’s head coach following the unexpected departure of Xabi Alonso from the Spanish royal club. At his unveiling press conference at the Bernabéu stadium, the former Spanish defender spoke candidly, especially when compared to Jose Mourinho, his former mentor who left a strong impression on his career.

Xabi Alonso’s exit from Real Madrid after just 34 matches in charge surprised the football world, especially since the young coach had just led “Los Blancos” to the Spanish Super Cup final. However, defeat to Barcelona in El Clásico prompted the club’s management to make a change on the bench.

In this context, Arbeloa was chosen as a stabilizing solution. The former right-back, who wore the Real Madrid jersey 237 times, spent 6 years working with the club’s youth academy and B team before being given the chance to lead the first team.

At his introduction, Arbeloa quickly dismissed comparisons with Jose Mourinho, who coached Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013 and had a significant influence on him as a player.

“I haven’t spoken to Mourinho. Being coached by him was a great honor, but I will be Arbeloa. If I try to be Mourinho, I will fail terribly,” the new Real Madrid coach openly stated.

According to Arbeloa, he has worked with many excellent coaches, each leaving their own mark. However, instead of imitating anyone, he wants to build his own coaching identity by selecting the best values from his predecessors.

Additionally, Arbeloa mentioned his close relationship with Xabi Alonso, his former teammate at Real Madrid, Liverpool, and the Spanish national team. He confirmed that he spoke with Alonso after the decision to part ways was made and assured that their friendship remains unaffected.

Regarding the team’s situation, Real Madrid currently trails Barcelona by 4 points in the La Liga title race and ranks 7th in the Champions League. Nevertheless, Arbeloa remains optimistic.

“The season is still long. What matters is that the players are happy, enjoy football, and understand that wearing the Real Madrid jersey is the greatest honor,” he emphasized, while reaffirming the club’s familiar philosophy: “Real Madrid was born to win.”

Arbeloa will make his debut as head coach when Real Madrid visits Albacete in the Copa del Rey, marking the start of a challenging new chapter at the Bernabéu.