Can Real Madrid Avoid a Title-less Season?
Real Madrid—widely regarded as Europe’s most successful club—is on the brink of an unfamiliar situation: a season without silverware. After crashing out of both the Copa del Rey and the UEFA Champions League, their only remaining hope lies in La Liga.
However, the odds are stacked against them.
Trailing arch-rivals FC Barcelona by nine points, Madrid’s title ambitions are fading fast. While mathematically still in the race, realistically, the league title appears out of reach.
Focus Shifts to Pride and Performance
Rather than dwelling on the title, Madrid’s immediate goal is simple: return to winning ways.
The team has struggled in recent weeks, going four consecutive matches without a win across competitions. Now, all eyes are on their upcoming clash against Deportivo Alavés.
Manager Álvaro Arbeloa has taken responsibility for the team’s poor form and emphasized the need for a strong response:
“At Real Madrid, there is no room for defeat. You must fight to win every single day.”
He also acknowledged the bigger picture:
- Two consecutive seasons without a major trophy could become a reality
- This would mark a rare low point in the club’s modern history
- A squad “revolution” may be necessary moving forward
Team News: Key Absences and Expected Lineup
Madrid will head into the Alavés match without key players:
- Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is unavailable
- Defender Raúl Asencio is sidelined with an injury
Despite these setbacks, the squad still boasts immense quality.
Expected Key Players:
- Vinícius Júnior
- Kylian Mbappé
- Jude Bellingham
- Federico Valverde
- Aurélien Tchouaméni
- Arda Güler
Defensively, Madrid will rely on:
- Antonio Rüdiger
- Dean Huijsen
Head-to-Head Advantage
History favors Madrid going into this fixture. Los Blancos have won five of their last encounters against Alavés, giving them a psychological edge.
Still, with the current form in question, nothing can be taken for granted.
Chelsea Also Under Pressure Ahead of Brighton Clash
Meanwhile, in the Premier League, Chelsea FC is facing its own struggles.
Under new manager Liam Rosenior, the team has endured a difficult run, losing three consecutive matches.
Injury Concerns Continue
Chelsea’s squad depth is being tested, with injuries piling up. Brazilian forward Estêvão Willian has now been added to the injury list, further weakening their attacking options.
Must-Win Situation Against Brighton
Chelsea will face Brighton & Hove Albion in a crucial fixture.
Despite Brighton’s inconsistent form—losing two of their last three matches—this is far from an easy game.
For Chelsea, the objective is clear:
- Secure three points
- Stay in the race for Champions League qualification
- Regain confidence and momentum
Final Thoughts
Both Real Madrid and Chelsea find themselves at critical points in their seasons. While Madrid is battling to salvage pride amid a potential trophy drought, Chelsea is fighting to keep their European dreams alive.
The coming matches could define the trajectory of both clubs—and possibly shape major changes in the near future.
