Champions League 2025-26 will start with a major headache for Xabi Alonso.

Real Madrid has launched a rebuilding process led by Xabi Alonso, who is arriving with a clear idea to rejuvenate and modernize the team. The 2024/25 season has been demanding and frustrating for Los Blancos, marked by constant injuries and the absence of major titles.

In this context, the sporting management has moved quickly and decisively. They have already secured signings such as Huijsen, and negotiations for players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Álvaro Carreras, and Nico Paz are very advanced.

 

Additionally, key additions are being considered to strengthen the midfield, and the signing of a new striker to accompany or potentially replace Kylian Mbappé is being evaluated.

Champions league is the main goal for next season

Despite still holding the title of European champion after their previous triumph, Real Madrid couldn't reclaim the crown. The journey was complex from the start, but Los Blancos managed to overcome two high-level rounds by eliminating Manchester City and Atlético.

However, Real Madrid couldn't get past Arsenal. This elimination was especially painful within the club, as it meant the end of the dream to repeat the title in a season marked by injuries and ups and downs.

Real Madrid will face two Premier League teams

Real Madrid faces a possible opportunity to settle old scores with Arsenal, a rival they've never managed to defeat in an official match. The history between the two is limited to four encounters in the Champions League, all of which ended without a win for Los Blancos. This makes the 'Gunner' side one of the club's unfinished business in Europe.

With the new Champions League format, there are more possibilities to face teams from the same league in that initial phase. According to reports, Real Madrid could face up to two Premier League clubs, which leaves the door open to possible clashes against Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, Newcastle, Arsenal, or Tottenham.

Tottenham, the latter, secured their ticket to the next Champions League after defeating Manchester United in the Europa League final. With a narrow 1-0 win at San Mamés, the Spurs added even more English competition to the tournament. The presence of so many clubs from England in the 2025/26 edition promises an initial phase full of stellar matchups.