Real Madrid is entering the 2025-26 season with renewed ambition, fresh preparations, and promising emerging talent. Under the new guidance of Xabi Alonso, the club is focusing on integrating young players and overcoming scheduling challenges to maintain its position as a powerhouse in European football. This article explores the latest developments in the team, physical transformations of key players, and preseason activities shaping Real Madrid’s upcoming campaign.
Preseason Preparation and Squad Developments
Real Madrid began their 2025-26 season preparations with early medical check-ups and physical assessments at Real Madrid City, signaling a disciplined start under coach Xabi Alonso. The squad’s first training session took place shortly after these assessments, aiming to build fitness and tactical cohesion despite a shortened preseason caused by the Club World Cup engagements in the summer.
Amid these preparations, one of the highlights is the significant transformation of young midfielder Arda Guler. Since joining from Fenerbahce in 2023, Guler had struggled to find his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup, overshadowed by established players like Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz. However, with Alonso at the helm, the Turkish international is expected to seize greater responsibility.
Guler’s commitment to improving has been intense: living with a dedicated physical trainer, physiotherapist, and cook, he has added around 8kg of muscle since his arrival at the Bernabeu, focusing on peak physical condition to contribute effectively in midfield roles. Alonso has publicly praised Guler’s qualities, highlighting his wide passing range and potential to boost the team’s overall play style.
In addition, due to Jude Bellingham’s expected absence until October, Guler’s chances of becoming a regular starter in the early season games are high. This not only bodes well for his development but also reinforces Real Madrid’s strategic integration of youth into competitive matches.
Scheduling Challenges and Tactical Outlook
While Real Madrid gears up on the training ground, the club faces logistical hurdles with LaLiga. Attempts to postpone the season opener against Osasuna on August 19 were rejected by the league authorities. This decision means Real Madrid must promptly adapt to a congested fixture schedule, testing team depth and stamina early in the season.
Coach Xabi Alonso’s approach combines physical resilience with tactical flexibility, capitalizing on the depth of the squad. His emphasis on youth players like Guler aligns with his plans to gradually refresh the team’s core while keeping a competitive edge domestically and in Europe. Training sessions so far have emphasized fitness, quick passing, and positional discipline to prepare the team for the demanding campaign ahead.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s start to the 2025-26 season reflects a club striving for excellence through a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent. The rigorous preseason under Xabi Alonso, coupled with Arda Guler’s physical and tactical evolution, sets a promising tone. Despite calendar pressures and fixture rescheduling issues, Real Madrid is preparing robustly to maintain its competitive stature. The season’s unfolding will reveal how these foundations translate into success on the pitch.
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