Álvaro Arbeloa's Rocky Coaching Debut at Real Madrid

Álvaro Arbeloa's first match as Real Madrid's coach resulted in a 3-2 loss to Albacete, eliminating the team from the Copa del Rey. Arbeloa, who recently replaced Xabi Alonso, faced criticism for resting star players. Despite regrets, Arbeloa praised his squad's effort. Madrid will face Levante next.

Álvaro Arbeloa began his tenure as Real Madrid's new coach with a disappointing 3-2 defeat to second-division Albacete, knocking the team out of the Copa del Rey in the round of 16.

Jefté Betancor scored the decisive goal in stoppage time, advancing Albacete to the quarterfinals. Despite a late equalizer from Gonzalo García, Madrid struggled to find form under Arbeloa, who took over from Xabi Alonso after a turbulent eight-month period.

Arbeloa faced criticism for resting key players like Kylian Mbappé, though he defended his decision-making and expressed confidence in his squad. Madrid faces Levante next, aiming to bounce back after a recent Super Cup loss to Barcelona.