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Real Madrid Fans Eager for La Liga Opener Against Osasuna

With optimism and anticipation, Real Madrid fans await the season opener against Osasuna, marred by injury setbacks, but bolstered by new and returning talents.

Transfer Watch

The spotlight shines on Rodrygo's situation with Real Madrid, amid intensifying speculations about his potential departure. Despite Manchester City's interest, head coach Xabi Alonso has confirmed that he counts fully on the Brazilian forward for the coming campaign. In other news, Real Madrid's proactivity in monitoring a midfield successor is apparent as the club plans for a strategic move aimed at signing Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Larsson in 2026. Larsson's stock is rising in the Bundesliga, and he embodies qualities that Real Madrid have identified as necessary to fill the void left by Luka Modric.

Injury News

Key Real Madrid players will be absent for the La Liga opener against Osasuna. Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham are side-lined, with Bellingham continuing to recuperate from shoulder surgery. Positive notes on his recovery suggest a potential return ahead of the initial timeline, especially as he's already back on individual grass work. Nonetheless, his absence, alongside Camavinga, stresses the midfield depth, which may prompt tactical adjustments from Alonso. Additionally, Antonio Rüdiger serves a suspension, further impacting the defensive line-up.

Squad Insight

Real Madrid's fresh energy comes from the inclusion of promising Italian forward Franco Mastantuono. Acquired from River Plate, Mastantuono impressed in training and seems set for a potential debut under the Bernabeu lights. This fixture also promises the return of Federico Valverde, now fit and raring to contribute after a minor stint on the sidelines. The coaching staff aims to judiciously utilise this blend of youth and experience, as they embark on a new domestic league challenge.

Tactical Notes

Xabi Alonso's blueprint for Real Madrid’s tactical evolution is anticipated to earn its first test in La Liga this season. A crafty mix of Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back is one of Alonso's latest adaptations, while the synergy between Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappé in attack remains pivotal as Los Blancos look to set forth a proprietary offensive style. With the defensive unit still adjusting to Modric's absence, Alonso's game plan will likely focus on solidifying structural strategies to face Osasuna’s challenges head-on.

Quick mentions

📸 JAVIER SORIANO - AFP or licensors