Real Madrid faced a significant upset on January 14, 2026, as they were knocked out of the Copa del Rey in the Round of 16 following a dramatic 3-2 defeat to second-tier side Albacete at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte. This match marked the highly anticipated, yet ultimately disappointing, managerial debut of Álvaro Arbeloa, who had been appointed Real Madrid's new first-team coach on January 12, 2026, replacing Xabi Alonso after the latter's departure by mutual consent. Albacete, currently 17th in LaLiga 2, secured a historic victory, with Jefte Betancor scoring twice, including a dramatic stoppage-time winner. The hosts took the lead in the 42nd minute through Javi Villar, but Real Madrid equalized just before halftime with a goal from Franco Mastantuono. Betancor restored Albacete's lead in the 82nd minute, only for Gonzalo Garcia to level the score again for Real Madrid in the first minute of stoppage time. However, Betancor's second goal just minutes later sealed the shock elimination for the Spanish giants. This early Copa del Rey exit adds to a challenging period for Real Madrid, coming shortly after their 3-2 loss to fierce rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The change in coaching staff, with former player Arbeloa stepping up from the Castilla (reserve) team, signals a new chapter for the club. While Kylian Mbappé is reportedly a Real Madrid player in January 2026, his specific role and presence in this match were subjects of discussion amid the club's turbulent start to the year.