Real Madrid launches the 2025‑26 season without Luka Modrić and with José Arbeloa taking charge. The club’s La Liga opener on August 17 at Athletic Bilbao begins a packed calendar that also includes early clashes with Villarreal, Atlético Madrid and Barcelona. Success will hinge on Arbeloa’s defensive overhaul and the squad’s ability to adapt quickly.
The Road Ahead – La Liga Fixtures
Real Madrid opens the campaign away at Athletic Bilbao on August 17, then returns to the Santiago Bernabéu to host Villarreal on August 25. The first Madrid Derby against Atlético Madrid arrives in mid‑September, providing an early test for new tactics. A high‑stakes clash with Barcelona follows in early November, reviving the rivalry after the recent Supercopa showdown. Additional demanding trips to Sevilla, Valencia and other top‑flight opponents round out the first half of the league schedule.
A Season of Firsts: Modrić’s Departure
Luka Modrić’s exit after 13 seasons marks the end of an era. The midfield void will be filled by a blend of promising academy graduates and fresh signings, including a dynamic Austrian midfielder and a 19‑year‑old talent from Castilla who excelled in the UEFA Youth League. Without Modrić’s deep‑lying playmaking, Arbeloa is expected to shift to a more vertical, counter‑attacking style that leverages Vinícius Júnior’s speed and Karim Benzema’s finishing prowess.
Coaching Turmoil: Alonso’s Exit and Arbeloa’s Promotion
Following the 3‑2 Supercopa defeat to Barcelona, Real Madrid terminated Xabi Alonso’s contract and promoted former defender José Arbeloa to head coach. Arbeloa, a club legend who retired in 2022, brings intimate knowledge of the academy and a reputation for developing young talent. His mandate focuses on solidifying the defence, integrating new midfield options, and establishing a clear attacking identity that maximises the wing‑back’s pace.
Competing on All Fronts
Beyond La Liga, Los Blancos will contest the Copa del Rey, defend the Supercopa de España, and chase Champions League glory. In Group E of the Champions League, Real face Paris Saint‑Germain, Inter Milan and Red Star Belgrade, guaranteeing three high‑profile encounters before the knockout stage. The congested calendar demands strategic squad rotation, especially with injury concerns surrounding Dani Carvajal and Eduardo Camavinga.
Season Outlook
The early league fixtures against Athletic Bilbao, Villarreal and Atlético Madrid will serve as litmus tests for Arbeloa’s tactical adjustments. A strong start could boost confidence heading into the Champions League group stage, while setbacks may trigger further roster tweaks. The club’s low tolerance for underperformance underscores Florentino Pérez’s demand for immediate results, blending continuity with urgency.
Looking Forward
Fans can follow real‑time updates on the official club platforms. The narrative of the 2025‑26 season will revolve around whether the new generation can fill Modrić’s void, if Arbeloa can translate his defensive instincts into trophies, and how the squad balances domestic and European commitments. One thing is clear: Real Madrid’s storied legacy is entering a transformative chapter, with the next twelve months set to define its next era of success.
