Fulham have officially appointed former Real Madrid coach and Spain international Álvaro Arbeloa as the club’s new head coach, signing him to a contract that runs until June 2029 following the departure of Marco Silva.
Arbeloa succeeds Silva, who left Craven Cottage after five successful years to become Benfica’s new manager. The 43-year-old arrives for his first managerial role outside Spain after progressing through Real Madrid’s coaching ranks, where he most recently guided the club’s first team.
Fulham owner Shahid Khan described Arbeloa as the club’s preferred candidate after extensive discussions over the team’s future, coaching staff and long-term vision. Khan praised the Spaniard’s ambition, football intelligence and commitment to developing young players, expressing confidence that he is the right person to lead Fulham into a new era. Tony Khan also welcomed the appointment, highlighting Arbeloa’s work ethic and experience at the highest levels of the game.
Speaking after his appointment, Arbeloa said it was “a real honour” to take charge of London’s oldest professional football club and expressed excitement about meeting Fulham supporters and beginning pre-season preparations. The former Liverpool, West Ham United and Real Madrid defender enjoyed a decorated playing career, winning the FIFA World Cup with Spain in 2010 and two UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid before moving into coaching.
Arbeloa’s first competitive assignment will be a high-profile Premier League clash at Craven Cottage against Chelsea on 24 August, where he is set to face fellow Spaniard Xabi Alonso in the dugout. Fulham supporters are hopeful the new manager can build on the club’s recent stability, integrate promising academy talent and push the team beyond mid-table in the upcoming campaign.
