Álvaro Arbeloa Suffers Nightmare Start at Real Madrid After Replacing Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid endured a shocking exit from the Copa del Rey, losing 3-2 to second-division Albacete in the debut match under new head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso just days earlier.[1][2]

The squad returned exhausted from a Super Cup defeat to Barcelona in Saudi Arabia, facing Albacete as heavy favorites on Wednesday night at the Carlos Belmonte stadium. Despite their pedigree, Madrid crumbled against the spirited hosts.[1]

Albacete struck first shortly before halftime when young midfielder Javi Villar, a former Real Madrid Castilla player, headed in from a corner—his second senior goal—sparking wild celebrations.[1] Madrid fought back but couldn't overcome the deficit, with Albacete netting twice more to secure a stunning 3-2 victory and eliminate the European giants.[2]

Arbeloa's tenure began disastrously, raising questions about Alonso's sudden departure on Monday and whether it was truly the root issue. Promising youngster Mastantuono, who joined from Argentina last summer, scored Madrid's first goal of the Arbeloa era but it proved insufficient after a slow adaptation period in Spain.[1]

Player ratings highlighted defensive lapses and a lack of cohesion, amplifying the embarrassment for the Blancos. This upset marks another Copa del Rey shock for Madrid, echoing past giant-killings, and piles pressure on Arbeloa early in his managerial career.[1][2]

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