It’s been a solid start to the 2025–26 season for Real Madrid, who are two wins from two without conceding a goal.
Xabi Alonso did have the Club World Cup to thrust principles and ideas onto his Madrid squad, but the absence of a proper preseason means his team are still learning as they go.
Sturdy defensive foundations have been a key point of emphasis for the new manager, having inherited a team that were often outrun and outmanouvred by opponents last season, despite their distinct talent.
Alonso has a wealth of riches at his disposal, and balancing out his team without limiting their star power is the tricky task the Spaniard is continuing to work on. With that in mind, here’s the team he could pick for Mallorca’s visit on Saturday night.
