Overview
- Real Madrid confirmed Xabi Alonso's departure by mutual agreement and appointed Álvaro Arbeloa to lead the first team.
- Arbeloa's debut brought a 3-2 Copa del Rey defeat to Albacete after several stars were omitted, and he accepted responsibility while citing the squad's physical state.
- The interim coach quickly reinstated long-time fitness chief Antonio Pintus, signaling a drive to restore conditioning standards.
- In new interviews, Zinedine Zidane detailed his turnaround model built on captain buy-in, renewed motivation and targeted cardio-heavy work blocks.
- Zidane also stressed strict selection based on training levels and constant availability to players, an approach that mirrors Madrid's immediate reset.