Real Madrid officially kick off their 2025-26 season at the Santiago Bernabéu, hosting Osasuna on the opening day of LaLiga. The match marks Xabi Alonso’s debut as head coach in Spain’s top flight and the much-anticipated return of Fede Valverde, as well as a possible first glimpse of Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono at the Bernabéu.

A Madrid side hit by absences but full of hope

Los Blancos begin the campaign with several key absentees: Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, and Endrick are sidelined with injuries, while Antonio Rüdiger is suspended. Even so, optimism is high thanks to new signings that have refreshed the squad.

In defense, the official debuts of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras are expected, strengthening the back line. In midfield, Uruguayan Valverde returns after overcoming a muscle issue and will be joined by Aurélien Tchouaméni and Arda Güler.

Up front, one of this season’s biggest attractions will be the attacking trident of Vinícius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Brahim Díaz, with Rodrygo Goes available as an impact substitute.

Mastantuono, the jewel waiting for his chance

Another storyline surrounds Franco Mastantuono, the 18-year-old Argentine midfielder who makes his first official call-up with the senior squad. Though he is expected to start on the bench, Xabi Alonso has not ruled out giving him minutes in front of the home fans.

The Basque coach praised the youngster’s maturity and talent in a press conference: “He’s got a spectacular left foot and a competitive character that fits perfectly with what we’re trying to build.” His inclusion reinforces the club’s renewal process after the departure of veterans like Luka Modric and the end of the Carlo Ancelotti era.

Osasuna’s challenge at the Bernabéu

On the other side, Osasuna, now led by Italian coach Alessio Lisci, arrive aiming to pull off an upset at a ground that has historically been unkind to them. Lisci makes his LaLiga debut with a reinforced defensive setup and Ante Budimir as his main attacking threat. However, the Pamplona-based side haven’t beaten Real Madrid in the league in over thirteen years, a streak that underscores the size of the task ahead.

A new era for Madrid

This clash represents not only the start of a new season but also the dawn of a new era under Xabi Alonso, who is tasked with restoring Madrid’s competitive edge. The partnership between Vinícius and Mbappé is expected to be central to the project, while fans eagerly await to see how the new pieces will fit into the system.

With the Bernabéu ready to roar, Real Madrid begin a campaign where nothing less than fighting Barcelona for the league title from day one will suffice.

Don’t miss all the goals from the match: