As Real Madrid prepare for the 2024/25 season, Florentino Perez is busy crafting a formidable squad under the sharp-witted lead of Carlo Ancelotti.
With superstars like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Federico Valverde already gracing their team, the much-awaited arrival of Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain promises to raise the Spanish giants' attack even stronger than before.
Despite grappling with injuries to key personnel such as Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, and David Alaba, the coming into the side of Antonio Rudiger has offered a reassuring presence in defense.
Looking ahead, the current La Liga leaders actively seeking to fortify their full-back positions, with Alphonso Davies of Bayern Munich becoming a prime target for the left side.
In midfield, Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to tie up the trio, supported by the super duo of Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga. However, uncertainties surround the futures of Los Blancos' midfield maestros Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, pushing the need for potential replacements.
Despite the defensive setbacks and midfield transitions, Ancelotti's attacking skills remain excellent, with the French superstar on the verge of joining the Spanish capital, ensuring excitement and anticipation for the upcoming campaign, appealing to the football fans around the world.
Taking up the role in the attacking midfield spot is Jude Bellingham, whose transfer from Borussia Dortmund to the Santiago Bernabeu has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for his super midfield presence, the 20-year-old's versatility allows him to casually adapt to different positions, whether arranging play from deeper positions or contributing to the attacking force.
Among the options being considered is the choice of Mbappé alongside Vinícius Júnior as part of a powerful front two. This approach focuses on building upon the team's current form while playing the exceptional talents of both stars.
However, the Italian boss is about to face the challenge of managing the left flank effectively, as both the Brazil and France internationals tend to favor that side. Carlo's acknowledgment of Vini's comfort on the left wing brings out the importance of tactical flexibility in positioning players to maximize their potential.
The next pair of options present formations that, theoretically, could pose challenges for Rodrygo. Ancelotti, recognizing the team's attacking potential, crafted a diamond formation with a key point on Bellingham. In this tactical arrangement, he becomes the central figure, being supported by Valverde and Camavinga in central midfield roles, while Tchouameni assumes the 'element B'.
Below, VBETNews takes a look at how Real Madrid should line up for the majority of their La Liga and European Cup matches in 2024/25:
How Real Madrid could line up for 2024/25
GK: Thibaut Courtois
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Since joining the La Liga giants in 2018, Thibaut Courtois has proven himself as the first-choice goalkeeper for Carlo Ancelotti's side. Despite a shaky start, he comfortably overcame any doubts and turned himself into the number one in goal.
Unfortunately, a serious injury has sidelined the Belgian star for the entirety of this season, forcing Los Blancos to seek alternatives. However, the 31-year-old is expected to be fully fit next season and regardless of Andriy Lunin's impressive form, the Beglium international will surely reclaim his role as the primary goalkeeper in the Italian boss' lineup.
RB: Dani Carvajal
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While not always the center of attention at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Spaniard has proven to be a vital asset for the Madrid giants for over a decade since his return from Bayer Leverkusen.
As the right back turns 33 this year and his contract is due to expire in June 2025, Carlo Ancelotti's board is actively seeking a player capable of transitioning into the role of a full-time starter at the club following a season of rotation. However, Carvajal is expected to remain at the club and continue his important role until the end of his current deal.
Moreover, following the indelible mark the Spain international left on the club, finding a suitable successor will undoubtedly pose a notable challenge for Florentino Perez.
CB: Éder Militão
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Despite the horrible injury setback that has sidelined him for almost the entire part of the current campaign, the Brazil international keeps his name high as one of Real Madrid's most formidable defenders.
Militao's absence has left a noticeable void in the La Liga leaders' defensive line, yet there's unwavering confidence that once he completes his recovery and returns to active duty, he will seamlessly regain his important role in the starting lineup.
As the 26-year-old defender hardworkingly works his way back to full fitness, the club's medical staff expects his return to be sooner than expected.
CB: David Alaba
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Much like Militao, David Alaba has been an exceptional player for Real Madrid since joining the club, demonstrating his power on the field.
However, the defender faced a significant setback in December against Villarreal and was sidelined for the entire season due to an ACL injury. With the typical recovery time for the following injury tear spanning between seven to eight months, it is expected that the defender will be absent from Euro 2024 this summer. Therefore, Alaba would aim to make a comeback sometime before the commencement of Madrid's 2024/25 season in August.
Nevertheless, few defenders worldwide can rival the Austrian's blend of speed and strength, which undoubtedly places him among the elite defenders in the whole world. The former Bayern Munich star poses a horrible challenge for opposing forwards to contend with, despite being 31 years old.
His position in Ancelotti's starting lineup appears secure, especially as the team looks ahead to the next season.
LB: Alphonso Davies
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Once again, the Madrid superhouse have been in the spotlight regarding the potential signing of Alphonso Davies, with recent reports indicating that he has verbally committed to joining the club.
While Bayern Munich still holding hope of extending his contract, they have now revealed their asking price for the pacey left-back to the Bernabeu. According to Marca, the Bundesliga team has set the Canadian's price tag at €70m.
However, negotiations between the clubs are expected this summer, with Florentino Perez and his board holding the upper hand as the 23-year-old's current deal nears its expiration next year.
CM: Federico Valverde
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Carlo Ancelotti has undergone outstanding changes in his midfield lineup in recent years, yet it seems unlikely that he will make major alterations this summer.
While veterans like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos are aging out of the squad, they have been replaced by young and fresher stars; exceptionally talented players, among whom is Federico Valverde.
Despite often being overlooked for his contributions at the Santiago Bernabeu, the 25-year-old has proven to be an important man for the La Liga giants since his arrival from the youth academy and making his debut in 2018.
With nearly 250 appearances already under his belt, the Uruguay international's impact is expected to continue growing substantially in the years ahead.
CM: Eduardo Camavinga
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Eduardo Camavinga arrived at Real Madrid amid immense hype as one of the most promising young midfielders globally, yet his journey towards global stardom has not reached to its peak yet.
Nevertheless, his sting at the Bernabeu has been nothing but a golden glimpse of his never-ending talent and faith in his potential. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the Frenchman is set to evolve into a world-class talent, with his presence anchoring Los Blancos midfield for the expected future.
DM: Aurélien Tchouaméni
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Unlike his fellow countryman and midfield mate, Tchouameni has already solidified his position in Ancelotti's Xi.
Since his move to the Bernabeud, the France international has appeared in 73 matches, turning himself as a backbone of the team's midfield. With his consistent performances and invaluable contributions, Tchouameni has already written his name in his position as one of the club's key players for the foreseeable future.
AM: Jude Bellingham
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Jude Bellingham's arrival at Real Madrid has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining from Borussia Dortmund last summer, the English midfielder has quickly emerged as one of the world's finest talents.
The 20-year-old's impact on the pitch has been remarkable, matching Cristiano Ronaldo's goal-scoring feats with 10 goals in as many games across all competitions. What sets Bellingham apart is his impeccable timing and coolness in front of goal, traits that have earned him widespread acclaim and the Golden Boy 2023 award with an astounding 97% of the votes.
Therefore, as the 'golden boy' continues to shine brightly, it's clear that Los Blancos' future is in the safest possible hands as Florentino Perez has secured gem for years to come.
RW: Kylian Mbappe
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As the rumors have been heating up again, the Mbapp-Real Madrid saga grows bigger. The superstar has reportedly informed Paris Saint-Germain of his intention to depart the club at the end of the current season, according to sources close to the matter.
While the terms of his exit are still being ironed out, an official announcement is expected in the coming months. The France international's potential arrival at the Bernabe, as a free agent in the summer, eliminates concerns over transfer fees. Talks suggest that the 25-year-old could agree to a reduced salary compared to his current hefty €200 million annual earnings at the Parisian outfit.
Despite previous indications favoring a move to Madrid, uncertainties linger as key members of the player's inner circle remain skeptical about the La Liga giants' offer, thereby extending the decision-making process.
Nevertheless, Mbappe is the best possible transfer for Real Madrid albeit at the expense of the fans' patience.
LW: Vinicius Jr.
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Following the departures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, Vinicius Jr has become the backbone of Real Madrid's front line.
Whether deployed on the flanks or in a central position, the 23-year-old has been a vital man for the club over the past five seasons. In the current, 2-23.24 season alone, the Brazil international has already netted 14 goals and contributed seven assists, marking his third consecutive season of achieving double figures in both categories for the club.
At his young age, Vini is already showing performances fulfilled with glow talents at an elite level. However, Kylian Mbappe's addition could allow the Brazilian star to maintain his preferred role on the left wing, with the Frenchman assuming the spotlight as the center-forward.
Real Madrid lineup, starting XI for the 2024 / 25 season
XI: Courtois; Davies, Alaba, Militao, Carvajal; Camavinga, Tchouameni, Valverde; Bellingham, Vini Jr., Mbappe
Bench: Lunin, Mendy, Vazquez, Nacho, Rudiger, Brahim, Ceballos, Guller, Ceballos, Rorygo
Real Madrid 2024/25 squad
Goalkeepers
1 - Thibaut Courtois
25 - Kepa Arrizabalaga
13 - Andriy Lunin
Defenders
3 - Éder Militão
4 - David Alaba
22 - Antonio Rüdiger
6 - Nacho Fernández
23 - Ferland Mendy
20 - Fran García
2 - Daniel Carvajal
17 - Lucas Vázquez
Midfielders
18 - Aurélien Tchouaméni
15 - Federico Valverde
12 - Eduardo Camavinga
8 - Toni Kroos
10 - Luka Modric
19 - Dani Ceballos
5 - Jude Bellingham
21 - Brahim Díaz
24 - Arda Güler
32 - Nico Paz
Forwards
7 - Vinicius Junior
11 - Rodrygo
14 - Joselu
Real Madrid 2024/25 transfer rumors
Kylian Mbappé has reportedly told PSG his intention to leave the club as his contract expires this summer, growing to rumors loud towards his long-anticipated move to Real Madrid. Talks between the Frenchman and the La Liga giants are underway, with the club hopeful of finalizing a deal soon.
Meanwhile, Madrid are said to have reached a verbal agreement with another superstar: Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies, whose contract extends until 2025, according to The Athletic.
On the other hand, Florentino Perez is keen on extending Ferland Mendy and Lucas Vázquez's contracts, positioning them as the primary backups for the defensive wings.
Moreover, as rumors swirl around Davies's potential arrival, speculation mounts over the departure of Fran Garcia. The Spanish left-back, a product of Madrid's academy, might face a departure from the Santiago Bernabeu this summer if the Cana international's transfer officially happens.
Carlo Ancelotti and his board are reportedly highly confident and optimistic about Toni Kroos remaining with the club for another season. This follows the midfield maestro's recent decision to come out of international retirement to join the German National Team for Euro 2024.
However, according to Relevo's recent reports, the 34-year-old is keen to renew his current deal for a further season until 2025.
Madrid are also interested in Lille's 18-year-old center-back Leny Yoro, who is also on the radar of PSG and Chelsea. However, according to recent reports, the teenager is keen to move to the Santiago Bernabeu instead, as the La Liga giants are now the front runners in his pursuit.
Real Madrid 2024/25 transfers IN
- Kylian Mbappe (PSG) - 95%
- Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich) - 75%
- Reece James (Chelsea) - 25%
- Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting Lisbon) - 20%
- Leny Yoro (Lille) -10%
Real Madrid 2024/25 transfers OUT
- Kepa Arrizabalaga: End of the loan spell - Jun 30, 2024 - 95%
- Joselu: End of the loan spell - Jun 30, 2024 - 95%
- Luka Modric: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2024 - 70%
- Fran Garcia: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2027 - 40%
- Nacho Fernández: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 24 - 10%