New Real Madrid boss Álvaro Arbeloa reportedly signed a contract with the club that extends beyond this season, erasing any doubts over the status of his appointment.
Xabi Alonso saw his time at the Bernabéu come to an abrupt end just two weeks into the new year after he failed to lead Los Blancos to Spanish Super Cup glory against bitter rivals Barcelona. The 3–2 defeat in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was the last game the 44-year-old managed for his former club.
