Overview
- Real Madrid were knocked out of the Copa del Rey in a 3-2 defeat to second-division Albacete, decided by a stoppage-time goal.
- Captain Dani Carvajal apologized to supporters, calling the moment a low point and accepting that players share primary responsibility.
- Álvaro Arbeloa rejected interpretations that he criticized Xabi Alonso, said all on-field failings are his responsibility, and highlighted work to improve fitness with Antonio Pintus.
- Reports detailed racist chants targeting Vinícius Júnior before the Albacete match, which drew public condemnation from Thibaut Courtois and the player’s agency.
- Arbeloa confirmed Rodrygo is out and Mbappé is in the squad for Saturday's Levante visit to the Bernabéu, as media scrutiny intensifies and summer coaching speculation, including Jürgen Klopp, is reported.