I don’t regret anything, insists Arbeloa but reports suggest stunning cup upset means Real Madrid are already searching for a new coach

As the opening nights began, things were disastrous for Arbeloa, who took over the reins following the departure of Xabi Alonso on Monday. Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid Castilla coach, has been promoted to the top job with a clear mandate to bring a disaffected dressing room back into the team.

Arbeloa said: “A draw at this club is bad and a tragedy, so imagine a defeat like this.” “It hurts, especially against a lower division team. It is clear that we have to improve.

“I am responsible, I make decisions: the team, how we want to play, the substitutions. We will try to restore our morale and improve the game on Saturday.” [against Levante in La Liga].

“I was convinced that the team was the right team, and I still believe that. We have an extraordinary team, with great players. It is not easy for them to do everything I asked of them after just one day.” [in the job]. We have a lot of players back to their best physical levels.

“I don’t regret anything. I would choose the same team again.”

Real Madrid captain Carvajal admits that the team has reached rock bottom

It was a bold approach in the face of this embarrassment. Captain Dani Carvajal showed more introspection.

He added: “I think we have hit rock bottom today.” “We were knocked out by a second-tier team. Congratulations to them. Starting tomorrow, we will all do some self-criticism, individually and collectively. There is still time to turn the season around.”

It remains to be seen whether Arbeloa is part of this process. It may help that Madrid did not reveal how long he would be in charge in their welcome announcement, and the Spanish press suggested this morning that plans to bring in a permanent replacement for Alonso have been accelerated.

However, Arbeloa remains confident that he can turn things around, adding: “If people want to describe this as a failure, I will understand that. For me, failure lies on the way to success. … I am not afraid of that word. I have failed a lot in my life, and I have suffered defeats in cups, and I am excited to reach this position.” [training ground] Valdebebas tomorrow and work with the players [play] Much better on Saturday.”

A clash with second-placed Levante at the weekend appears to be the perfect match for Real Madrid to get back on track. Alonso’s side won the reverse fixture 4-1 in September.