Fulham appoint Arbeloa as Silva's successor

Fulham have appointed Alvaro Arbeloa as their new manager on a three-year contract, succeeding Marco Silva who left to join Benfica. The 43-year-old former interim Real Madrid boss expressed his honor at taking the role, while chairman Shahid Khan praised Arbeloa's ambition, interest in the academy, and intent to play attacking football. Arbeloa's candidacy was supported by references from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and new manager Jose Mourinho. Arbeloa, who previously led Real Madrid for 28 games after Xabi Alonso's departure, is keen to bring players like Franco Mastantuono, Fran Garcia, and Gonzalo Garcia with him. The appointment comes after other candidates were considered, including Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna, who was deemed too expensive. Silva's departure surprised the Fulham board after he had previously indicated a desire to stay.