Real Madrid, having added Kylian Mbappe to their squad for the 2024/25 season, faces challenges despite high expectations. Their unbeaten run in La Liga was marred by a draw against Atletico Madrid, and they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Lille in the Champions League. Key goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is sidelined with an abductor injury, impacting their upcoming matches, including the league clash with Villarreal, with Andriy Lunin set to replace him. Courtois is expected to recover in time for their crucial matches later in October, including a highly anticipated game against Barcelona. Villarreal, currently third in La Liga, poses a significant challenge, having won three of their last four games.