Bayer Leverkusen decided not to go with Álvaro Arbeloa for the coaching position. The former Real Madrid player offered himself to the German club in recent days. The information was provided by the newspaper Bild this Wednesday.
The German club is looking for a replacement for Kasper Hjulmand, whose departure is considered imminent. Arbeloa had his candidacy evaluated, but did not advance. The Leverkusen sports management recognizes his work in the Real Madrid youth categories, but points out a lack of experience for a high-level project at Bundesliga.
Leverkusen tracks market after failures on other fronts
Bayer Leverkusen has already suffered rejections or withdrawals from more experienced names. Filipe Luis, Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner did not remain on the radar. Míchel, another listed, signed with Ajax.
Essa sequence of setbacks opened space for alternative profiles. Arbeloa emerged in this context. The Salmantino coach left Real Madrid at the end of last season and is looking for a new opportunity, preferably abroad.
- The German club monitored Arbeloa between 2022 and 2025
- Ele led Real Madrid’s under-19 team with important titles
- His intention was to repeat the path of Xabi Alonso in Leverkusen
The management of Leverkusen, led by Simon Rolfes, prioritizes coaches with experience in elite leagues. The decision about Arbeloa was made internally in the last few hours.
Perfil of Arbeloa attracted attention but did not convince
Álvaro Arbeloa, 43 years old, built a long career with Real Madrid as a player. Depois, moved to the technical committee of the lower categories. Ele successfully coached the under-19s between 2022 and 2025, winning national and international trophies.
Mesmo thus, Bayer Leverkusen understood that the resume is still not enough. The club valued his time at La Fábrica, but chose another path. The negative was communicated clearly.
The Spanish coach sees German football as a natural springboard. Xabi Alonso, a former teammate, began his successful journey as a coach there. Arbeloa wanted to follow a similar example.
Detalhes from Bayer Leverkusen current search
The club is going through a period of management restructuring. Kasper Hjulmand took over in September 2025, but failed to achieve the expected results. His departure opens up a place for the 2026/27 season.
The board works with discretion. Vários names circulated, but few advanced. The focus is on professionals capable of keeping Leverkusen competitive in Bundesliga and European competitions.
Arbeloa was one of those who actively performed. Seu staff got in touch. The answer came quickly and negatively. The club continues to analyze other options on the international market.
What changes for Arbeloa after the denial
Bayer Leverkusen’s rejection does not end Álvaro Arbeloa’s coaching career. Ele accumulates solid experience at the base of Real Madrid and is now looking for projects that enhance its style.
The European market remains open. Clubes from mid-leagues and rising projects may see him as a viable option. The coach maintains a strong emotional bond with Real Madrid, but rules out returning to the Spanish club for now.
Ficha Álvaro Arbeloa technique
- Idade: 43 years
- Último club as coach: Real Madrid (base categories)
- Principais achievements: Títulos with Real Madrid’s under-19s between 2022 and 2025
- Estilo: Formação of young talent and high intensity
- Current Situação: Livre on the market after end of cycle in Real Madrid
Bayer Leverkusen is expected to announce his new coach in the coming weeks. The search remains active.