Real Madrid begin their 2025/26 La Liga campaign on Tuesday night with an away fixture against Osasuna at El Sadar. Los Blancos, now under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, aim to reclaim the title from arch-rivals Barcelona after finishing second last season.
For Osasuna, a strong mid-table finish last year has provided optimism. Alessio Lisci’s side are looking to secure another top-half position while hoping to trouble Spain’s elite clubs once again.
Real Madrid’s selection challenges
Xabi Alonso’s preparations have been complicated by a string of absences. Central defender Antonio Rüdiger remains unavailable as he serves a six-match domestic suspension. Midfield star Jude Bellingham and Brazilian forward Endrick are sidelined with injuries, while Ferland Mendy and Eduardo Camavinga face late fitness assessments.
Despite these setbacks, Madrid supporters are eager to see the club’s high-profile new signings in action. England international Trent Alexander-Arnold, signed from Liverpool, is expected to debut at right-back. Young centre-back Dean Huijsen and left-back Álvaro Carreras are also likely starters.
Meanwhile, teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono could be handed his first La Liga appearance, adding further intrigue to Madrid’s line-up.
Osasuna’s quiet transfer window
In contrast, Osasuna have experienced a relatively calm summer in the transfer market. Their most notable arrival is Victor Muñoz, a midfielder signed from Real Madrid who may start on the bench. French full-back Valentin Rosier, brought in to strengthen the defence, is tipped to make his debut at right-back.
The team will again rely heavily on striker Ante Budimir, who netted 21 league goals last season and remains their most reliable attacking outlet. However, doubts linger over the fitness of Rubén García and Iker Benito, who are racing against time to be available.
Predicted line-ups
Real Madrid are expected to field: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Militão, Huijsen, Carreras; Arda Güler, Tchouaméni, Valverde; Brahim Díaz, Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior.
Osasuna are likely to respond with: Herrera; Rosier, Catena, Boyomo, Bretones; Torró, Moncayola, Oroz; Kike Barja, Budimir, Moi Gómez.
A test of depth and resilience
Madrid’s strength in depth will be under close scrutiny. Alonso will hope the attacking flair of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior compensates for the absence of several senior midfielders. The match also represents a significant opportunity for emerging talents to prove themselves at one of Spain’s most demanding clubs.
For Osasuna, the fixture offers an early measure of their progress under Lisci. A positive result against Madrid would provide both confidence and momentum at the start of what they hope will be another stable campaign.
As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on El Sadar to see if Real Madrid can launch their pursuit of Barcelona with a statement performance, or if Osasuna can deliver an early upset.
