Alvaro Arbeloa endures nightmare start to Real Madrid reign as second-tier Albacete produce huge Copa del Rey shock – ‘We must improve’

In his first match in charge, Arbeloa endured a chastening introduction as Albacete – 17th in La Liga 2 – claimed a stunning 3-2 victory in their last-16 tie at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte, sealed by Jefte Betancor’s 94th-minute winner.

The contest appeared to be heading for extra-time when Gonzalo Garcia equalised three minutes earlier, but substitute Betancor’s superb finish, cutting inside from the left, condemned Arbeloa to defeat on his debut and plunged Madrid into an early cup exit.

Speaking to the Spanish press after the match, the former Liverpool full-back did not shy away from responsibility.

“I imagine that all our fans are disappointed, especially with a lower-ranked team. From here on, we must improve. I am responsible.

“I’m not afraid of failure. Anyone who wants to talk about failure, let them do so. For me, it’s the path to success. I’ve failed many times in my life, even worse than this, and tomorrow we’ll return to Valdebebas (the training ground) with more enthusiasm.”

Jefte Betancor struck a brilliant winner deep into stoppage time

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Asked whether he regretted selecting a youthful line-up, a defiant Arbeloa replied: “I don’t regret it, I have a great squad and I would do it again a thousand times over.”

Madrid could have few complaints. Betancor’s late strike was his second of the night and the third time Albacete had taken the lead. On this occasion, a Madrid side containing several senior players – including Vinicius Junior, Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga – were unable to mount a response.

Valverde and Vinicius Jr retained their places, while Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe were left at home, but Madrid looked sluggish throughout.

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Javi Villar had given the hosts the lead shortly before half-time, only for Franco Mastantuono to equalise before the break.

Betancor restored Albacete’s advantage eight minutes from time after coming off the bench, and although Garcia struck again in the first minute of stoppage time, the reprieve was short-lived.

Betancor had the final say moments later on the counter-attack, sealing a famous first victory for Albacete over the 15-time UEFA Champions League winners – and a sobering start to life in the Bernabeu dugout for Arbeloa.

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Bellingham responded with an expletive-laden post on his JB5 social media platform. “Until now l’ve let far too many of these slide, always hoping the truth will come to light in its own time,” Bellingham began, posting on his own app. “But honestly… What a load of s***.

“Truly feel sorry for the people that hang onto the every word of these clowns and their ‘sources’. Do not believe everything you read, every now and then these lot need to be held accountable for spreading this kind of damaging misinformation for clicks and added controversy.”