Image Credits: Imago Images
Real Madrid have reportedly identified a contingency option should they decide to part ways with head coach Alvaro Arbeloa. The former Liverpool defender was promoted from Castilla earlier this month following Xabi Alonso’s departure.
After losing his first match in charge against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, Arbeloa oversaw three straight wins against Levante, AS Monaco and Villarreal. However, a 4-2 defeat to Benfica in the Champions League on Wednesday has left Madrid facing a play-off tie to keep their European campaign alive.
Arbeloa said after the game: “I don’t regret anything I said, it’s what I believe. If the conclusion is that we lose because the forwards don’t run, I completely disagree.” We were far from what we want to be, from the demands of the opponent, from the atmosphere, from what was at stake…
“We weren’t able to perform at the required level for 90 minutes. We knew we had to work hard, we’re aware that there’s a lot to do. We have to look ahead. To win these games, you have to do a lot of things right for 90 minutes.”
Amid growing uncertainty over Arbeloa’s future, Sky Germany reporter Patrick Berger claims Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is on Real Madrid’s shortlist for the summer, with initial contact already made.
Emery has impressed since joining Villa in 2022, guiding the club to Champions League qualification and into a Premier League title race.
The 54-year-old has won 97 of his 172 matches in charge and is widely respected for his European pedigree, having lifted the Europa League four times with Sevilla and Villarreal respectively.
Berger posted on X: “Unai Emery (54/🇪🇸) is on Real Madrid‘s shortlist for summer – confirmed. Initial contact has already been made. The Spaniard is doing a fantastic job at Aston Villa, his work has impressed several people inside @realmadrid. Emery is under contract until 2029 at #AVFC. @SkySportDE.”
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