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 the squad. Besides that, there was pressure from outside - rival Barca had a favorable start - 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 opening match. Photo: RM FC

Due to participating in the FIFA Club World Cup (reaching the semi-finals - lost to PSG 0-4), Real Madrid 'burned' 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.

It's not just about the team not being physically fit, 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 who is suspended since last season.

Xabi Alonso tried to ease the anxiety 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 gain confidence and fighting spirit going forward.

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