Real Madrid started life without Xabi Alonso by crashing out of the Copa del Rey to second-tier strugglers Albacete as Alvaro Arbeloa endured a nightmare first match in charge. Former Madrid and Liverpool defender Arbeloa was immediately appointed as the Spaniard's replacement, but his reign got off to the worst possible start on Wednesday. It was a game that saw Arbeloa, who was working as head coach of Madrid's B team, rotate his side. Jefte Betancor thought he had caused an upset in the 82nd minute when he put the underdogs ahead again, only for in-from Real forward Gonzalo Garcia to equalise. Madrid's defeat means they only have LaLiga and the Champions League left to play for this season, and they are currently four points behind Barcelona in the league table.

Source: Daily Mail January 15, 2026 07:36 UTC