Real Madrid entered the new season with doubts, in a rather tense atmosphere: very little time to prepare, not yet in good physical condition, missing nearly half of the squad. Besides, there was pressure from outside - rival Barca started smoothly - winning 3-0 against Mallorca.

Jude Bellingham Rudiger RMFC.jpg
Jude Bellingham and Rudiger are two of five stars absent from Real Madrid's 2025/26 La Liga opener. Photo: RM FC

Due to participating in the FIFA Club World Cup (reaching the semi-finals - losing to PSG 0-4), Real Madrid was 'burned' in the pre-season, it feels like new captain Xabi Alonso is still in the team building phase.

The former Spanish midfielder is aiming for a smooth start with the Spanish Royal team, avoiding the unfortunate 'curse' for domestic coaches at Bernabeu, but is facing too many challenges.

Not only is the team not yet in good shape, Xabi Alonso is even missing 5 names in the opening match of La Liga 2025/26, including 4 injured players: Jude Bellingham , Camavinga, Mendy and Endrick, and center-back Rudiger is suspended since last season.

Xabi Alonso tried to downplay the concerns when he reportedly told those close to him: “ Real Madrid are building a strong and competitive team, but we need time and patience .”

The 'hot seat' at Bernabeu is always very harsh, President Perez does not show mercy to any coach and always needs specific achievements.

At Real Madrid, you have to win big titles like La Liga and the Champions League, Xabi needs 3 points (in a difficult situation) tonight to have confidence and fighting spirit ahead.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/xabi-alonso-gap-hoa-ra-quan-la-liga-real-madrid-vang-5-tru-cot-2433505.html