Fulham have held talks with representatives of Alvaro Arbeloa about the Premier League club's managerial vacancy, sources confirmed to ESPN, as the club searches for Marco Silva's replacement.
ESPN reported that the discussions have taken place but are not yet at an advanced stage. That distinction matters: Arbeloa is a candidate in Fulham's process, not an announced appointment.
Fulham Search After Silva Exit
Fulham are looking for a new manager after Silva left Craven Cottage to take charge at Benfica following five years with the London club. ESPN reported that Silva guided Fulham to an 11th-place finish in the 2025-26 season.
The opening has put Arbeloa, 43, into the conversation after a short but high-profile spell in charge of Real Madrid's first team. ESPN reported that Arbeloa officially left Madrid this week after five months as first-team coach at the Bernabeu.
Arbeloa had taken over from Xabi Alonso in January. ESPN reported that he was previously highly rated in Real Madrid's academy setup and impressed with reserve team Castilla before the first-team promotion.
Arbeloa's Madrid Spell Gives Fulham A Profile
Arbeloa led Real Madrid to second place in LaLiga, eight points behind champions Barcelona, according to ESPN. Madrid also reached the Champions League quarterfinals before being eliminated by Bayern Munich.
The cup record was less comfortable. ESPN reported that Real Madrid were knocked out of the Copa del Rey by lower-tier Albacete during Arbeloa's spell.
Arbeloa's playing background is also part of the Fulham connection. The former defender played for Liverpool before his Real Madrid years, giving him Premier League experience even if his senior coaching work has come in Spain.
Talks Are Not Yet Advanced
ESPN's reporting does not put Fulham close to a deal. It says talks with Arbeloa's representatives have happened, while adding that they are not yet at an advanced stage.
The immediate fact is narrower: Fulham have opened contact with Arbeloa's side while continuing a managerial search after Silva's move to Benfica.