Fulham appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as head coach as Harry Wilson nears Leeds move | OneFootball

Fulham have named Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach, underlining a summer of upheaval for a key Leeds United rival. The appointment arrives as Harry Wilson closes in on a switch to Elland Road.

Marco Silva and Wilson left at the end of their contracts, with Silva taking charge of Benfica and Wilson agreeing a free transfer to Leeds, where he is expected to be unveiled imminently. The club said in a statement that Arbeloa has signed a three-year deal, keeping him at Craven Cottage until summer 2029. Director of football Tony Khan had hoped Wilson would wait for the new head coach before deciding, but the winger had already made up his mind.

Arbeloa had been tipped to succeed Silva for weeks and Fulham confirmed the move late on Tuesday. It is only his second permanent post, following five months at the Bernabeu after coaching Real Madrid’s youth sides.

He described the role as an honour, expressed gratitude to Mr Khan and Tony Khan, and is eager to start pre-season next week. He also looked forward to sharing the journey with Fulham supporters.

Fulham visit Elland Road on December 19, with the return at Craven Cottage pencilled in for February 27. Arbeloa therefore has time to implement his style before facing Leeds.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk