LaLiga: Arbeloa Sends Farewell Message to Real Madrid Forward, Saying “I Wish I Had Been More Fair with You”

Outgoing Real Madrid interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa sent a farewell message to forward Gonzalo Garcia.

The Spaniard watched his side win 4‑2 over Athletic Club on the final day of the 2025/26 LaLiga season, his last match in charge.

Arbeloa took over at Real Madrid after the club split with Xabi Alonso in January.

He was unable to guide the team to success in either the Champions League or LaLiga. Los Blancos were knocked out by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter‑finals, and a 2‑0 loss to Barcelona in the recent El Clásico ended their title hopes.

Real Madrid has now finished two consecutive seasons without a trophy, prompting club president Florentino Pérez to initiate a change. Jose Mourinho is reportedly set to take over as head coach this summer.

Before the match against Athletic, Arbeloa announced his departure from the club. After the season’s final game, several Real Madrid players sent farewell messages to the coach.

Gonzalo Garcia, who scored the opening goal against Athletic Club, shared on Instagram:

“Mister Arbeloa, I am immensely grateful for everything you have imparted to me over these past years. It has been a privilege to serve under you both in the academy and in the first team.”

“I wish you and your entire staff the very best; you truly deserve it!”

In reply, Arbeloa said he wished he had treated the striker differently and emphasized that Garcia means more to him than just a player.

Arbeloa stated, “Thank you so much, Gon. You’ve been much more than just a player for me. I wish I had been more fair with you. Go show all your worth.”

Garcia finished the season with six goals and one assist in 30 LaLiga appearances.