Real Madrid faces a harsh reality.

For the first time in years, the Spanish royal club is facing a harsh reality: two consecutive seasons without winning a single title. This is unacceptable for a club built on a foundation of victories and always proud to possess its "champion DNA".

The last straw

Real Madrid's defeats to Bayern Munich in both legs of the Champions League quarter-finals were the final straw. Ironically, those were two of Real Madrid's best performances of the season.

Real Madrid entered the match with a clear plan, ready to play an attacking game and taking the lead three times at the Allianz Arena. However, football is always measured by its final results, and Real Madrid paid a heavy price for a season of inconsistency.

Real Madrid đối mặt thực tế khắc nghiệt - Ảnh 1. — Real Madrid (right) has collapsed in terms of both playing style and team management across all competitions. (Photo: UEFA)

Real Madrid's problem lies in the accumulation of numerous weaknesses that have gone unaddressed for a long time, despite having to change managers mid-season. Experts liken Real Madrid's tendency to be slow and arrive late at crucial moments. When they need composure to finish off opponents, they lack the coolness; when they need solidity, their defense reveals flaws.

On an individual level, Kylian Mbappe continues to demonstrate his class with game-changing ball control. However, the leadership role he is expected to play remains unclear. In big matches, Real Madrid lacks a player capable of truly deciding the outcome. When Vinicius Junior's form declines, the attacking burden falls too heavily on Mbappe, resulting in deadlock at crucial moments.

A systemic vulnerability.

One of the few bright spots at Real Madrid is the maturation of Arda Güler. The young player has demonstrated a modern approach to football and the ability to connect the team's play.

However, in a team in crisis, individual positive signs are not enough. The defense continues to be Real Madrid's Achilles' heel. The return of Éder Militão and Ferland Mendy is not enough to patch systemic weaknesses, especially given that Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras are constantly criticized for their lack of aggression.

In midfield, the inconsistency of the French midfield pairing of Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni caused Real Madrid to lose control of the game's tempo. When the opposition increased their pace, the Spanish team was often drawn along, losing control of the game and being forced to defend passively.

Real Madrid is renowned for its ability to shine on the biggest stages, where the greater the pressure, the more dangerous they become. This season, that image has almost disappeared; the team no longer maintains its tenacity, no longer delivers those decisive moments of brilliance.

Two consecutive seasons without trophies is not only a failure in terms of titles but also a sign of a declining cycle. Despite possessing many top stars, Real Madrid lacks cohesion, tactical discipline, and the spirit of sacrifice – core elements for maintaining success at the highest level.

Real Madrid must undertake a comprehensive overhaul, from squad building to strengthening the roles of each individual, including the coach. Not only do they need to strengthen their squad, but "Los Blancos" also need to rebuild their identity – the very thing that helped them dominate Europe for many years.