After nearly a decade of dedication to nurturing future stars at Real Madrid’s youth academy, legendary striker Raúl González has officially stepped away from his post as head coach of Real Madrid Castilla.
The 47-year-old icon leaves behind a legacy of commitment, leadership, and pride within the club’s developmental system. His exit marks a significant shift at La Fábrica, coinciding with the club’s appointment of Xabi Alonso as first-team manager. In a seamless transition, former defender Álvaro Arbeloa takes over the reins of Castilla, ushering in a new chapter for Real Madrid’s next generation.
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A Glorious Tenure Shaping Tomorrow’s Stars
Raúl began his coaching journey within Real Madrid’s academy setup during the 2018-19 campaign. His early efforts included overseeing several youth sides before taking charge of the under-19 team, guiding them to a prestigious UEFA Youth League triumph in 2020. By 2019, Raúl assumed responsibility for Castilla, the club’s B team, and remained at the helm for five consecutive seasons.
Under his guidance, the squad maintained competitive form, with Raúl instilling a blend of discipline, technical excellence, and the intangible values that embody Real Madrid.
“Raúl has informed the club of his decision to end his time as a coach at our youth academy,” the club announced on Tuesday, confirming his departure.
A Symbol of Madridismo
Few figures are more synonymous with Real Madrid than Raúl. A generational talent who lit up the Santiago Bernabéu for over a decade, Raúl wore the white jersey with pride from the late 1990s through 2010. His contribution to the Spanish national team further cemented his standing as a footballing icon.
“Real Madrid is proud to have had one of the greatest legends in our history and world football as a coach and trainer at our youth academy,” the club stated. “Raúl also exemplifies all the values of Real Madrid. Values that he has also passed on as a coach.”
Gratitude and an Unfinished Chapter
In his farewell message, Raúl reflected on his rewarding journey and expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity.
“I want to thank the club of my life for the opportunity it has given me,” he said. “A new phase begins in my life as a coach outside of this club, with the certainty that I’ll eventually return to this place that will always be my home.”
Though highly regarded, Raúl’s ambition to lead the senior team never materialized. Despite speculation linking him with the top job in past years, the club has now handed the position to Xabi Alonso, who begins his tenure on June 1, replacing Carlo Ancelotti.
“Raúl will always be in the hearts of all madridistas, and Real Madrid will always be his home,” the club added, affirming the enduring bond between club and legend.
Arbeloa Steps Up: A Familiar Face Takes Charge
Replacing Raúl is Álvaro Arbeloa, another academy graduate and club stalwart. Having played for Real Madrid’s senior team between 2009 and 2016, Arbeloa lifted eight major trophies, including two Champions League titles. His coaching journey began in 2020, returning to his roots to lead the under-19s.
During his time with the junior team, Arbeloa delivered tangible success—two league titles, a Copa del Rey, and a Champions Cup triumph. His tactical mindset and close rapport with club president Florentino Pérez have made him a promising figure in Madrid’s coaching hierarchy.
The 42-year-old’s existing relationship with incoming first-team manager Xabi Alonso adds a new layer of synergy to Real Madrid’s revamped coaching structure. His promotion signals the club’s continued faith in its homegrown talent—on and off the pitch.
Next Steps: Raúl’s Future in the Dugout
While Raúl exits without leading the first team, his managerial aspirations remain intact. Links to coaching opportunities across Europe—especially in Germany, where he ended his playing career with Schalke—have surfaced frequently. Spanish sides like Villarreal, Espanyol, and Sevilla have also reportedly shown interest in recent seasons.
With Xabi Alonso set to take over from Carlo Ancelotti on June 1, Raúl’s hopes of managing Madrid’s top squad have been deferred yet again. Nonetheless, the former striker appears poised to gain experience at an elite level elsewhere—perhaps as preparation for a future Santiago Bernabéu homecoming.
Raúl himself admitted that the journey transformed him: “I want to thank the club of my life for the opportunity it has given me. It made me grow as a professional and as a person.”
What Lies Ahead for La Fábrica?
As Raúl departs, Real Madrid’s youth academy remains in steady hands. Arbeloa’s promotion ensures continuity and upholds the club’s emphasis on internal development. Simultaneously, reports suggest Julio Baptista, another ex-Madrid attacker, may soon step into a new coaching role, further reinforcing the club’s tradition of empowering former players.
Raúl’s farewell isn’t the end—it’s merely an interlude. In his own words, he has left “with the certainty that I’ll eventually return to this place that will always be my home.”
FAQs
Why did Raúl leave Real Madrid Castilla?
Raúl left Real Madrid Castilla to explore new coaching opportunities and grow his career outside the club.
Who will replace Raúl as Castilla coach?
Álvaro Arbeloa will replace Raúl as the new head coach of Real Madrid Castilla.
Did Raúl win any titles as a coach at Real Madrid?
Yes, Raúl led the under-19 team to UEFA Youth League victory in 2020.
Will Raúl return to Real Madrid in the future?
Raúl confirmed he plans to return to Real Madrid someday, calling it his home.
What coaching experience does Álvaro Arbeloa have?
Álvaro Arbeloa coached Real Madrid’s under-19 team, winning two league titles, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions Cup.
