Real Madrid faces a period of intense reflection following a stunning exit from the Champions League quarter-finals at the hands of Bayern Munich, which leaves the 15-time European champions contemplating a second consecutive season without any trophies.
The Champions League was their last viable opportunity to secure silverware, as their LaLiga aspirations have diminished significantly, currently sitting nine points behind rivals Barcelona with only seven matches left in the season.
The defeat against Bayern was preceded by a surprising elimination in the Copa del Rey against Albacete, a team from the second division, in January. This setback, coupled with inconsistent domestic performances, has severely affected the team’s momentum. When Real Madrid faces Alaves in LaLiga on Tuesday, it will mark a month since their last victory in any competition.
Barcelona, on the other hand, is in a position to potentially secure the league title for the second consecutive year when they host Real Madrid at Camp Nou on May 10, with three matches remaining. Such a scenario would undoubtedly intensify the struggles for their historic rivals.
For Real to reclaim the title, they would need to achieve a perfect end to the season while hoping for a significant decline from Barcelona—an unlikely scenario that highlights the depth of their current challenges.
The season began with uncertainty following the hiring of Xabi Alonso, who was replaced after six months by former teammate Alvaro Arbeloa, who had been managing the B team. Although there have been signs of improvement in performance, the results have not reflected this growth. Club president Florentino Perez now faces the critical decision of whether the perceived progress and a commendable display against Bayern, despite the exit, warrant continued faith in Arbeloa.
Moreover, the squad itself is under the microscope. Fans, who have grown accustomed to the high standards set by the club’s 15 European Cup victories—five of which came in the last twelve years—are now questioning the team’s depth and overall structure, along with the broader sporting vision.
Vinicius Jr’s contract situation further complicates matters. His current deal expires at the end of next season, and stalled negotiations have sparked discussions about his future with the club.
Additionally, there is ongoing debate regarding the tactical compatibility of Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe, and whether both can thrive together on the field. Plans for bolstering the defense and midfield are a priority, but these strategies depend on a significant decision: whether to build the team around Mbappe as the central figure, or to continue with a partnership that has yet to fully convince. The upcoming weeks may not yield any silverware, but they hold the potential to shape the future trajectory of Real Madrid.
