Real Madrid’s Turbulent Start to 2024/25
After a stellar 2023/24 season that saw Real Madrid claim both the La Liga and Champions League titles, expectations were sky-high. However, the new campaign has brought challenges for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Despite early successes, the team has faced tactical dilemmas, injury woes, and inconsistent form, leaving them chasing rivals Barcelona at the top of the league.
Performance Snapshot
• Games Played (All Competitions): 17
• Wins: 11
• Draws: 3
• Losses: 3
• Goal Difference: +18
• League Position: 2nd
Madrid began the season on a high note, claiming the UEFA Super Cup with a win over Atalanta, highlighted by Kylian Mbappé’s debut goal. However, cracks began to show with losses to Lille, AC Milan, and a crushing 4-0 El Clásico defeat to Barcelona. Injuries to key players, including Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Thibaut Courtois, have further exposed their vulnerabilities.
Standout Players
1. Vinícius Júnior
Vinícius has been Madrid’s savior on numerous occasions this season. The Brazilian has scored two hat-tricks, including a heroic performance against Borussia Dortmund to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the Champions League. His consistency has been vital in a misfiring attack.
2. Antonio Rüdiger
With Madrid’s defense decimated by injuries, Rüdiger has stepped up as a leader at the back. His physicality, aerial dominance, and composure have been crucial, and he has even chipped in with two Champions League goals.
Underperformers
1. Kylian Mbappé
Despite scoring eight goals in 16 appearances, Mbappé has struggled to adapt to Madrid’s system. His preferred role on the left wing has clashed with Vinícius, leading to awkward adjustments and limiting his overall impact.
2. Jude Bellingham
After a breakout season last year, Bellingham’s attacking influence has dipped. The lack of cohesion in Madrid’s forward line has restricted his creative freedom, reducing his threat in advanced areas.
3. Aurelien Tchouaméni & Federico Valverde
Both midfielders have failed to hit their usual heights. Tchouaméni has been inconsistent in his defensive duties, while Valverde’s dynamic box-to-box contributions have waned.
Challenges Ahead
1. Tactical Issues
The compatibility between Vinícius and Mbappé remains unresolved. Ancelotti must find a way to harmonize their playing styles or risk continued inefficiency in attack.
2. Injury Crisis
Injuries to defensive stalwarts like Militao and Courtois have severely weakened Madrid’s backline. Depth remains a concern, and a prolonged crisis could derail their season.
Season Expectations
Despite the turbulence, Real Madrid’s resilience and pedigree make them perennial contenders for silverware. If Ancelotti can resolve the tactical dilemmas and the squad regains fitness, they are still capable of challenging for titles both domestically and in Europe. However, without significant improvements, they risk being outshone by their fiercest rivals.
Madrid has overcome worse starts in the past—dismissing them now would undoubtedly be premature.