(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Real Madrid Begin New Era Under Xabi Alonso with Fresh Signings and Tactical Overhaul
Madrid, August 2025 – Real Madrid head into the new La Liga season with renewed optimism under newly-appointed coach Xabi Alonso, determined to leave behind the disappointing end to Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure. Backed by several high-profile signings, Alonso promises “ambitious” football and a fresh tactical approach.
Season Opener vs Osasuna
Madrid’s campaign kicks off on August 20 against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu. Fans are eager to see how Alonso’s style will translate in competitive matches after mixed performances at the Club World Cup in the United States, where PSG handed Madrid a 4-0 defeat in the semi-final.
Tactical Flexibility and Defensive Commitment
Unlike Ancelotti’s predictable four-at-the-back setup, Alonso has already shown tactical adaptability, switching between three-man and four-man defences. He has stressed that all 11 players must contribute defensively, including superstars Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé.
“They have to know how we want to press, and without that, things will be complicated,” Alonso said, highlighting the need for balance between attack and defence.
Balancing Mbappé and Vinicius
Finding the right formula for Mbappé and Vinicius to shine together without sacrificing defensive solidity will be key. Winger Rodrygo Goes appears to have a reduced role, having featured only sporadically in pre-season.
Goodbyes and New Arrivals
This season marks the first in over a decade without Luka Modrić, whose departure leaves a creative gap in midfield. Madrid hope Arda Güler can step up, especially with Jude Bellingham sidelined until mid-October following shoulder surgery.
Other notable additions include:
-
Trent Alexander-Arnold – Signed from Liverpool, bringing world-class delivery from the right flank.
-
Dean Huijsen – Defensive reinforcement.
-
Álvaro Carreras & Franco Mastantuono – Young talents for depth.
Madrid have spent over €170 million this summer, also welcoming back Dani Carvajal from a long-term knee injury.
Aiming for Titles After Trophyless Season
Last season saw Barcelona secure a domestic treble while Madrid finished without a major trophy, despite Mbappé’s 43 goals. Alonso’s challenge is to restore dominance, inject “emotion and energy” into Madrid’s play, and make headlines for footballing excellence rather than off-field controversies.
