Real Madrid’s starting XI vs Osasuna will be the same as the pre-season clash with only one change | OneFootball

According to Miguel Angel Lopez on COPE, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is preparing to kick off his first La Liga campaign in charge with only one adjustment to the side that featured in their pre-season friendly against WSG Tirol.

The only change will see Federico Valverde return to the starting XI against Osasuna, replacing Dani Ceballos in midfield.

Valverde’s recovery from minor muscular problems allows him to slot back into midfield, bringing energy and balance to Los Blancos.

Meanwhile, Ceballos will drop to the bench, having started in the Austrian test. Aside from this, Alonso will stick with the same players.

Alonso’s tactical blueprint

The Madrid boss is expected to maintain a flexible formation, starting with a 4-3-3 that can easily shift into a 3-5-2 or even a 4-4-2 depending on match situations.

This versatility is a hallmark of Alonso’s tactical approach, as he looks to combine defensive solidity with fluid attacking movements.

Madrid will, however, begin the season with several important absences. Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, and Endrick are all sidelined with injuries, while Antonio Ruüdiger is serving a one-match suspension carried over from last season.

Federico Valverde will return to the starting XI. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

The absence of these key names means that Alonso will have to rely on squad depth, but his lineup still looks strong enough to command authority at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Madrid start as favourites

Real Madrid enter their league opener as clear favourites, especially in front of their home fans.

Their challenge will be to impose their rhythm and avoid the mistakes of recent campaigns, where the team often leaned too heavily on individual sparks rather than a consistent team structure.

Alonso’s emphasis on balance and clarity should help address these concerns, with Valverde’s return adding dynamism to the midfield.

With expectations already sky-high, Madridistas will be eager to see how his tactical ideas take shape in competitive action.

If his pre-season plans translate effectively onto the pitch, Real Madrid could be set for a strong and confident start to their La Liga journey.