Foot Africa
·28 January 2026
Joselu defends Madrid squad after Alonso exit rumours and praises Arbeloa’s approach

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Yahoo sportsFoot Africa
·28 January 2026

Ex Real forward reveals what’s really happening behind the scenes

Joselu defends Madrid squad after Alonso exit rumours and praises Arbeloa’s approach
Former Real Madrid striker Joselu spoke about his move to Al Gharafa and shared his thoughts on Alvaro Arbeloa’s start as coach.
Joselu now playing for Al Gharafa in Qatar has opened up about his time at Real Madrid and his new chapter in the Qatari league.
The Spanish striker left Madrid after the 2024 season joining Al Gharafa in deal worth around €1.5 million.
Despite his short spell, Joselu earned strong support from Madrid fans especially after his unforgettable role in Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich where he scored twice as substitute.
Speaking to Marca, Joselu described Real Madrid as the natural home of Champions League saying the club always feels connected to the heart of the competition.
Joselu called his two goal performance against Bayern one of the greatest experiences of his career.
He said that, from football point of view, it was the best moment he has ever lived.
He added that those dramatic seconds of waiting for the VAR decision felt endless but were worth it in the end as they helped Madrid reach another European final.
Joselu also shared his view on Alvaro Arbeloa who has taken over as Real Madrid’s head coach following the departure of Xabi Alonso.
He stressed that managing the dressing room is essential because squad includes many different personalities and age groups.
According to Joselu, Arbeloa given players more freedom and the group looks happier and more responsive on the pitch.
Joselu defended Madrid’s players against rumors suggesting they were responsible for Alonso’s exit saying false stories often spread when results become difficult.
Joselu recalled his first appearance for Real Madrid in 2011 under Jose Mourinho sharing a memorable story about Mourinho’s intense halftime motivation during match against Almeria which ended in 8-1 win.
He described Mourinho as coach who pushes players to improve and leaves lasting impressions inside the dressing room.








































