Arbeloa Secures First Bernabéu Victory as Real Madrid Edge Past Levante Amid Fan Unrest

Álvaro Arbeloa celebrated his 43rd birthday with a much-needed first league win as Real Madrid manager, guiding Los Blancos to a 2-0 victory over Segunda División strugglers Levante UD at the Santiago Bernabéu on January 17, 2026.

The match, part of La Liga matchday 20, saw a tense atmosphere following recent setbacks, including Xabi Alonso's shock departure earlier in January and Arbeloa's immediate promotion from Castilla coach. Fans had expressed frustration after back-to-back defeats and a humiliating Copa del Rey exit to Albacete under the new regime, with whistles greeting the team earlier in the week.

Real Madrid dominated possession but struggled in a lackluster first half, managing only six shots and failing to break through Levante's organized defense. The breakthrough arrived in the 58th minute when Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty to open the scoring. Seven minutes later, young defender Raúl Asencio headed in a second goal to seal the result.

The win moved Real Madrid to within one point of league leaders Barcelona, offering temporary relief to Arbeloa amid ongoing speculation about his long-term future. While the three points eased pressure, fan discontent lingered, with some supporters directing criticism at the board and players despite the result.

Arbeloa's side now turns focus to the Champions League, hosting Monaco next. The modest opposition tempered celebrations, but the victory provides a foundation as Real Madrid aims to rebound in a demanding season.