Fulham considering Arbeloa as Marco Silva's successor in 2026

Fulham are in discussions with Alvaro Arbeloa to replace departing manager Marco Silva.

Club in managerial talks Fulham are currently in discussions to appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as the new manager following Marco Silva's decision to leave Craven Cottage. Silva spent five seasons at the club before agreeing to join Benfica after they lost Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid. Arbeloa, aged 43, previously took charge of 28 matches for Real Madrid last season on an interim basis. He stepped in after Xabi Alonso left for Chelsea midway through the campaign. ## Arbeloa's coaching background Arbeloa has spent his entire coaching career at Real Madrid, rising from youth team roles to the interim manager position. During his playing days, he had two stints at the Santiago Bernabeu and also represented Liverpool and West Ham in the Premier League. His experience in both management and playing at top clubs makes him a strong candidate for the Fulham role. Sources have indicated that while talks are underway, they are not yet at an advanced stage. ## Alternative managerial targets explored Fulham had previously held discussions with Kieran McKenna about the managerial vacancy. However, the club decided against pursuing the move due to the £8 million release fee required to part ways with McKenna at Ipswich Town. McKenna later left Ipswich, stating he wanted to take a break to spend more time with his family. The Cottagers ultimately finished 11th in the Premier League last season.