Álvaro Arbeloa said he would welcome José Mourinho back to Real Madrid, calling the former manager “number one.” The former defender‑turned‑coach denied reports of an “unmanageable” dressing room amid recent club drama.

Madrid’s season has been marred by incidents, from a training‑ground clash between Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde to Florentino Pérez announcing elections after a trophyless campaign. The club sits 11 points behind champions Barcelona.

Arbeloa, promoted from reserve‑team coach in January, praised the learning experience of managing a top‑flight side, noting he has handled Champions League matches. He dismissed claims that he labelled Kylian Mbappé the squad’s “fourth‑choice forward,” calling the story a misunderstanding.

With Mourinho listed as the leading candidate to replace Arbeloa next season, the Spanish club’s internal politics intensify. The decision could reshape Madrid’s strategy as it battles for La Liga points.