Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Arbeloa named Fulham coach on three-year deal, succeeding Silva

7/8/2026

50 12 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fulham appointed Álvaro Arbeloa as head coach on a three-year contract.
He succeeds Marco Silva, who left the club for Benfica after his contract expired.
Owner Shahid Khan and vice-chairman Tony Khan said Arbeloa shows ambition and commitment to Fulham.
Arbeloa previously managed Real Madrid from January to May, overseeing 28 matches, finishing second in La Liga and exiting the Champions League in the quarter-finals to Bayern Munich.

History

Historical Context

Abramovich’s 2003 takeover of Chelsea and his £70 million spending in 2004 to hire José Mourinho marked the Premier League’s turn to billionaire-backed, foreign managers. The pattern endures, with Shahid Khan appointing former Real Madrid defender Álvaro Arbeloa at Fulham in 2024, using a high-profile ex-player to raise the club’s brand and attract sponsors.

1 of 2

Story summary

Fulham appointed Álvaro Arbeloa as head coach on a three-year contract.
He succeeds Marco Silva, who left the club for Benfica after his contract expired.
Owner Shahid Khan and vice-chairman Tony Khan said Arbeloa shows ambition and commitment to Fulham.
Arbeloa previously managed Real Madrid from January to May, overseeing 28 matches, finishing second in La Liga and exiting the Champions League in the quarter-finals to Bayern Munich.

1 / 2