Fulham have confirmed the appointment of former Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach, with the Spaniard signing a three-year contract at Craven Cottage.
The 43-year-old, who was part of Spain's 2010 FIFA World Cup-winning squad, succeeds Marco Silva, who stepped down after guiding Fulham to an 11th-place Premier League finish last season before taking over Portuguese giants Benfica.
In a statement, Fulham said: "The Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as the new Head Coach of Fulham."
Arbeloa enjoyed a decorated playing career, winning two UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid, while also spending time in the Premier League with Liverpool.
His spell in charge of Real Madrid, however, proved far more challenging. Appointed in January following the departure of Xabi Alonso, Arbeloa oversaw a difficult campaign that included a Copa del Rey last-16 exit to second-tier Albacete, several costly LaLiga defeats that ended the club's title ambitions, and a Champions League quarter-final elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich.
The disappointing run left Real Madrid without silverware for a second consecutive season.
Speaking after his appointment, Arbeloa expressed his excitement about taking charge of the west London club.
"It is a real honour for me to be embarking on this new stage at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London," he said.
"I feel a great sense of responsibility."
Arbeloa also brings valuable Premier League experience from his playing days with Liverpool as he prepares for his first managerial role in English football.
