Arbeloa Says He Would Welcome Mourinho Back to Real Madrid

Álvaro Arbeloa has expressed support for the possible return of José Mourinho as coach of Real Madrid CF next season.

Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, has been strongly linked with a return to the club following another disappointing campaign for the Spanish giants.

The Portuguese manager, currently in charge of SL Benfica, previously led Madrid during fierce title battles with Pep Guardiola’s FC Barcelona.

Speaking on Saturday, Arbeloa described Mourinho as an important figure in Real Madrid’s history.

“For me, as a former (Madrid) player and as a Madridista, Jose Mourinho is number one. He’s one of ours,” Arbeloa said.

“If he comes back next year, I’ll be very happy to see him back home.”

The remarks come after Real Madrid ended a second consecutive season without winning a major trophy, increasing pressure on club president Florentino Pérez to make significant changes.

Arbeloa, who succeeded Xabi Alonso in January, was unable to reverse the club’s struggles during the campaign.

The former defender also commented on concerns surrounding Kylian Mbappé after the French forward reacted to being benched during Real Madrid’s win over Real Oviedo.

Mbappé had only recently recovered from a thigh injury that ruled him out of the El Clasico defeat against FC Barcelona, which confirmed Barcelona as La Liga champions.

“I used to be a player, I know what they can feel in these situations,” Arbeloa explained.

“I totally understand that Kylian wasn’t happy about not playing on Thursday, and I like that.”

He added: “I wouldn’t understand it if he didn’t want to play. My relationship with him remains the same.”

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