Real Madrid Begins Rebuild After Trophyless Season

Real Madrid finished the 2024-25 season second in La Liga behind Barcelona, experiencing defeats in the Copa del Rey, Supercopa, and Champions League quarterfinals, which led to the departure of coach Carlo Ancelotti. Kylian Mbappé joined after much anticipation, scoring 43 goals and earning the Golden Shoe in his debut season, though the team failed to win any major trophies. Xabi Alonso has been appointed as the new head coach to oversee a planned rebuild ahead of the Club World Cup. Confirmed new signing Dean Huijsen and reportedly near-complete deal for Trent Alexander-Arnold signal a busy transfer window, with veteran midfielders Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos departing. Midfielder Nico Paz may return to the squad, and further reinforcements are targeted, including Angelo Stiller. Additionally, Madrid authorities plan to relocate street vendors around the Bernabéu, affecting local businesses.