Real Madrid's Rollercoaster Ride: Injuries, Hope, and a Shocking Academy Exit
Welcome to the latest installment of Inside Real Madrid, your weekly deep dive into the highs and lows of the club's 2025-26 La Liga campaign. Each week, we sift through the noise to bring you trusted insights and analysis on the stories that matter most to Madridistas.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the international break offered a moment to reflect, the mood at Real Madrid is a curious mix of optimism and caution. Yes, the humiliating defeat to Atletico Madrid on September 27 still stings, but there’s a silver lining. Barcelona’s 4-1 drubbing at Sevilla means Madrid sits comfortably atop La Liga with a two-point lead. Add to that their flawless Champions League start, and it’s clear the team is on the right track—or are they? And this is the part most people miss... Sources close to the training ground (who spoke anonymously) insist Xabi Alonso’s vision still needs time to fully materialize. With a packed schedule ahead—Getafe away, Juventus at home, and the highly anticipated El Clasico—the real test is yet to come.
The Injury Conundrum: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
As El Clasico looms, the injury list is a hot topic. Antonio Rudiger and Ferland Mendy are confirmed absentees, both sidelined with thigh injuries. But there’s hope for Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who could make miraculous returns. Kylian Mbappe, after a brief scare with an ankle issue, is expected to feature against Getafe. Franco Mastantuono’s muscle strain is less severe than initially feared, though his availability remains uncertain. Dean Huijsen’s calf injury will likely keep him out of the Getafe clash, but Madrid is optimistic he’ll be ready for El Clasico. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Andriy Lunin enjoyed a much-needed break, skipping international duty altogether.
International Stars Shining Bright
Speaking of international duty, some Madrid stars stole the spotlight. Rodrygo, who hadn’t scored for Madrid since March, bagged a brace in Brazil’s 5-0 thrashing of South Korea, with Vinicius Junior also getting on the scoresheet. Mbappe inched closer to becoming France’s all-time top scorer, while Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia showcased their talent for Turkey and Spain’s U-21s, respectively. David Alaba, returning from a serious knee injury, continues to impress, racking up minutes for Austria.
The Miami Move: A Controversial Decision?
Bold statement alert: Real Madrid is not happy about Villarreal vs. Barcelona being relocated to Miami. They argue it distorts the competitive integrity of La Liga, as Villarreal loses a home advantage and Barcelona avoids a tricky away fixture. The club also criticizes the lack of consultation with all La Liga teams. Is this a fair complaint, or just sour grapes? Let us know in the comments.
Academy Shakeup: A Key Departure
In a move that flew under the radar, Abian Perdomo, a 13-year veteran of Real Madrid’s academy, has stepped down from his role in the training and methodology department. Highly respected within the club, Perdomo is reportedly in advanced talks to join the Moroccan FA’s youth development committee. This development adds another layer to the ongoing talent tug-of-war between Spain and Morocco, highlighted by players like Lamine Yamal, Achraf Hakimi, and Brahim Diaz choosing sides. Who stands to gain more from this shift? Share your thoughts below.
As Real Madrid navigates this pivotal season, one thing is clear: every decision, every injury, and every departure could shape their destiny. Stay tuned, because the drama is far from over.
