Real Madrid Welcomes New Era with Key Signings for 2025-26 Season
Real Madrid, one of the most storied clubs in world football, is gearing up for the 2025-26 season with significant changes to its squad and management.
The club, entering its 122nd season and 95th consecutive year in La Liga, has made headlines with strategic signings and notable departures as it prepares for a busy campaign across multiple competitions, including La Liga, Copa del Rey, Supercopa de España, and the UEFA Champions League.
Key Signings Bolster the Squad
Real Madrid has been active in the transfer market, securing high-profile talents to strengthen their roster.
On May 17, 2025, the club announced the signing of Spanish center-back Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, with the 21-year-old joining on June 1, 2025, on a five-year contract.
Huijsen, praised for his versatility and composure, is expected to play a pivotal role in the team's defensive build-up play under new manager Xabi Alonso.
On May 30, 2025, Real Madrid and Liverpool finalized a deal for Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the English right-back signing a six-year contract starting June 1, 2025.
The 26-year-old, who has won nine trophies with Liverpool, brings creativity and defensive solidity to the squad.
His arrival has been celebrated by fans and analysts alike, with many tipping him to become one of the most successful British players in the club's history.
Additionally, on June 13, 2025, Real Madrid confirmed the acquisition of Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono from River Plate.
The 18-year-old, who will join the club on August 14, 2025, and remain until 2031, is regarded as a precocious talent.
Having become River Plate’s youngest-ever goalscorer in February 2024, Mastantuono’s flair and versatility have drawn comparisons to James Rodríguez, signaling a bright future for Los Blancos.
Departures Mark the End of an Era
The 2025-26 season will be notable for the absence of club legend Luka Modrić, who departed as a free agent on May 22, 2025, after 13 illustrious years.
Modrić, Real Madrid’s most decorated player with 28 trophies, leaves a legacy that includes six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns.
His exit marks the first time since the 2011-12 season that the Croatian maestro will not grace the Santiago Bernabéu.
Additionally, club captain Jesús Vallejo also left on May 30, 2025, upon the expiration of his contract, concluding his tenure with the club.
The departure of these veterans signals a transition to a younger, dynamic squad under Alonso’s vision.
Xabi Alonso Takes the Helm
Following Carlo Ancelotti’s mutual departure on May 23, 2025, after securing 15 trophies as Real Madrid’s most decorated manager, Xabi Alonso has stepped in as the new head coach.
Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder, is reportedly leaning towards implementing a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to blend the club’s attacking prowess with a solid defensive structure.
His appointment has sparked excitement, with reports indicating his desire to bring in a veteran striker like Ante Budimir or even Roberto Firmino as a backup to Kylian Mbappé.
Preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup
Real Madrid’s immediate focus is the FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States from June 18 to July 13, 2025.
The club is drawn in Group H alongside Al Hilal, Pachuca, and RB Salzburg, with matches scheduled in Miami, Charlotte, and Philadelphia.
The tournament represents an opportunity for Alonso to make an early statement, with the final set for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Real Madrid’s participation follows their success in the 2024 FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they defeated Pachuca 3-0.
Transfer Rumors and Strategic Moves
Real Madrid’s transfer activity is far from over, with negotiations ongoing for Benfica’s left-back Álvaro Carreras, expected to be finalized post-Club World Cup.
The club is also linked with players like PSG’s Vitinha and Granada’s young star Oscar Naasei, reflecting president Florentino Perez’s strategy of blending youth with experience.
However, the club may allow departures, with names like David Alaba, Rodrygo, Fran Garcia, and Ferland Mendy potentially on the move if playing time remains limited.
Looking Ahead
As Real Madrid embarks on the 2025-26 season, the blend of fresh talent, a new managerial vision, and the club’s storied ambition positions them as favorites in both domestic and international competitions.
With a global fanbase exceeding 350 million and a legacy of 15 UEFA Champions League titles, Los Blancos are poised to continue their reign as football’s superpower.
The Santiago Bernabéu faithful eagerly await the first match of the La Liga season on August 17, 2025, as Real Madrid aims to reclaim the title from rivals Barcelona, who dominated the 2024-25 campaign.
With a refreshed squad and Alonso’s tactical acumen, the stage is set for another chapter in Real Madrid’s illustrious history.