Real Madrid Knocked Out of Copa del Rey in Arbeloa’s First Match

Arbeloa’s debut ended with a loss to Albacete that spotlights concerns over the team’s conditioning.

Overview

Albacete beat Real Madrid 3-2 with a stoppage-time winner in the round of 16, handing Álvaro Arbeloa a damaging first result.
Arbeloa criticized the squad’s physical state after the defeat, saying there is “a lot of room for improvement,” and he accepted responsibility for his selection.
Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham were left out to rest, with the coach also opting for several youngsters in the cup lineup.
Antonio Pintus was reinstated as fitness coach within hours of Arbeloa’s appointment, reflecting the board’s focus on conditioning.
The club hierarchy plans to warn players over the cup exit and still expects Arbeloa to see out the season while evaluating summer options, according to AS via Football España.