Real Madrid bid farewell to several key figures following their final home game of the season, a 4-2 victory against Athletic Club. While Dani Carvajal and David Alaba made their final on-field appearances, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa opted for a more understated departure.
Arbeloa had announced his departure from Real Madrid before the Athletic match. His tenure, which began in January after taking over from Xabi Alonso, was unlikely to result in a contract extension due to the team’s failure to secure any trophies and a reported negative atmosphere within the dressing room under his leadership.
One notable player who had a public disagreement with Arbeloa was Kylian Mbappe, who had previously expressed his criticisms to the media. However, it appears the pair have since reconciled their differences and are parting on amicable terms, as evidenced by their recent social media interactions.
According to Marca, Mbappe extended his best wishes to Arbeloa in an Instagram post. Arbeloa responded with a touching message:
“Thank you so much, Kylian. I will always be proud to say I coached such an extraordinary football player with unparalleled talent. Difficult times don’t last forever, but strong people do. Onwards to all that’s next.”
Other Real Madrid Stars Offer Well Wishes
While not every Real Madrid player dedicated individual posts to Arbeloa, several prominent team members took the opportunity to send him their good wishes. Antonio Rüdiger, Brahim Díaz, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior all posted messages for their former coach. Arbeloa reciprocated these sentiments, describing Bellingham as “a born leader, an exceptional professional, and a wonderful person,” and telling Vinicius that “it has been an honor to be your coach.”
