Arbeloa bids farewell to Real Madrid after trophyless season
Interim Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa sent an emotional farewell message to forward Gonzalo Garcia following Sunday's 4-2 victory over Athletic Club, the final match of the 2025/26 LaLiga season. Arbeloa took charge in January after Xabi Alonso's departure but couldn't secure silverware—Los Blancos were eliminated by Bayern Munich in Champions League quarter-finals and lost 2-0 to Barcelona in El Clasico, ending title hopes. This marks Real Madrid's second consecutive season without trophies, prompting club president Florentino Perez to initiate changes with Jose Mourinho reportedly taking over as head coach this summer. Garcia, who scored the opening goal against Athletic, expressed gratitude on Instagram: 'I am immensely grateful for everything you have imparted to me over these past years.' In response, Arbeloa admitted: 'I wish I had been more fair with you. You've been much more than just a player for me.' Garcia recorded 6 goals and 1 assist in 30 LaLiga appearances this season.