The 2024–25 season for Real Madrid was a tale of evolution, expectation, and transition — a campaign marked by moments of brilliance, near misses in domestic competitions, and the dawn of a new era under incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Glory and Heartbreak
Real Madrid captured two international titles, securing the UEFA Super Cup with a 2–0 win over Atalanta — where Jude Bellingham was named Player of the Match — and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, dominating Pachuca 3–0. In the latter, 39-year-old Luka Modrić made history as the oldest player to feature in a competitive match for the club.
But domestically, heartbreak struck twice.
Madrid finished second in La Liga, narrowly edged out by fierce rivals Barcelona. A defining moment came on May 11 in El Clásico, where a Kylian Mbappé hat-trick wasn’t enough to prevent a 4–3 defeat — a result that ultimately cost them the title. The Copa del Rey final also ended in disappointment, with a 3–2 extra-time loss to Barça, sealed by Jules Koundé’s dramatic winner.
In Europe, Madrid’s Champions League run ended in the quarter-finals. A 5–1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal — including a humbling 3–0 first-leg loss at the Emirates — exposed structural flaws that incoming coach Xabi Alonso must urgently address.
Standout Performers
Kylian Mbappé – Forward
- Impact: La Liga Golden Boot winner, European Golden Shoe winner
- Highlight: Hat-trick in El Clásico; Club’s Player of the Season
- Transfer: Joined from PSG on a reduced-fee deal
- Role: Midfield anchor and creative engine
- Highlight: Player of the Match in UEFA Super Cup win
Luka Modrić – Midfielder
- Legacy: Oldest player in club history at 39
- Highlight: January goal and vital leadership off the bench
Antonio Rüdiger – Defender
- Performance: Most consistent defender; clutch performances
- Recognition: Fan favorite and defensive leader
Underwhelming Seasons
Vinícius Júnior – Forward
Struggled with injuries and positional overlap with Mbappé. Inconsistent form and fewer goal contributions compared to prior seasons.
Fitness issues and loss of form saw him fall behind Camavinga and Kroos. Needs a strong preseason to bounce back.
Dani Carvajal – Right-Back
Struggled defensively in big games. Likely replacement already secured in Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Rodrygo Goes – Forward
Inconsistent impact, particularly in the second half of the season. Faces stiff competition for minutes in 2025–26.
Managerial Shift: Alonso In, Ancelotti Out
After winning 15 trophies, Carlo Ancelotti steps down as Madrid’s most decorated manager. Xabi Alonso, fresh off his success with Bayer Leverkusen, steps in to lead the next era.
The Vinícius Question: Where Does He Fit?
Alonso’s system emphasizes structure, pressing, and vertical transitions — traits Vinícius will need to adapt to.
- Option 1: Left-sided shadow striker in a 3-4-2-1
- Option 2: Classic left winger in a 4-3-3 (if Alonso adapts the shape)
- Risk: Could be rotated or benched if defensive effort and spacing don’t improve
Smart Spending, Big Names
Madrid prioritized value over vanity, securing both Mbappé and Alexander-Arnold on below-market deals. The “low-cost, high-impact” strategy could become the new Galáctico model.
The 2024–25 season brought both silverware and sobering setbacks. With Xabi Alonso now at the helm and stars like Mbappé and Bellingham at the forefront, Madrid’s next chapter could be among its most compelling yet.
