Real Madrid-La Liga opening day 2025-2026. The squad now travels to take on Osasuna on Tuesday, at the fabled Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. Under the stewardship of manager Xabi Alonso, the team is set on making a strong opening. They’re eager to meet any challenge that their team’s barriers may bring.
Xabi Alonso, class of ’23 Bundesliga winner with Bayer Leverkusen. This year, he wants to put into practice a tweaked approach to his effective 3-4-2-1 formation that’s made such a splash. This strategic approach promises to improve control of the ball and pressure going forward, key components for Real Madrid’s title hopes this year.
Yet the roster is particularly hard hit by injuries and transfers. Iconic veteran midfield general Luka Modric won’t be with the team for the first time in more than a decade. This absence creates a huge playmaking ability gap.
Key Players and Tactical Adjustments
Keeper Thibaut Courtois will lead the back line. He’ll be partner by his new signing, Trent Alexander-Arnold, lauded as one of the top right backs on the planet. Included in that backline mix is Militao and Huijsen, with Carreras and Tchouameni anchoring midfield.
In the attacking front, Real Madrid will rely on the talents of Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr., and the summer’s highest-profile signing, Kylian Mbappe. Alonso’s tactical shift seeks to capitalize on their pace and creativity to dismantle Osasuna’s defense.
“The coach is trying to make us have more control of the game, and that’s better for me.” – Arda Guler
Arda Guler, the other key summer addition, should thrive in this fast-paced system. His ability to manage the game’s tempo could be vital, especially with Modric’s absence. Despite facing adversity with injuries, including Eduardo Camavinga’s right ankle injury, Guler’s adaptation to Alonso’s tactics will be closely watched.
Injury Concerns and Squad Depth
As the season gets underway, the central Spanish club is already stricken with injury issues. Wish Bellingham well Jude Bellingham recently had quite a successful shoulder surgery. Unfortunately, that means he’ll be out for at least the first two months of the campaign. On top of that, Dean Huijsen’s return date is unknown after his arrival from Bournemouth for £50 million ($67 million) in May.
The only player who will miss tomorrow’s Copa del Rey semifinal against Osasuna is Antonio Rudiger. He’s serving a one-game ban that carries over from last year. The loss of these three pivotal operators will certainly strain the depth of Real Madrid’s squad as they endure a grueling start to the fixture list.
Even given these blows, Real Madrid will be feeling good going into the season. They’ve even managed to strike up a beautiful relationship on the field with Osasuna! During their previous five meetings, they won four matches and drew one.
Looking Ahead
Their upcoming game against Osasuna will be another chance for Real Madrid to make a statement and prove they are challengers for the title. Xabi Alonso’s strategic approach and the integration of new players will be crucial for success in La Liga this year.
Fans eagerly anticipate how well the new formation will work and whether Guler can become a reliable playmaker in Modric’s absence. Against Eibar, the opening fixture at the Bernabéu, that was a pivotal moment for the team. It’s their opportunity to pave the way for the coming season.
