Real Madrid Cannot Afford Another Defensive Year Like 2025

Real Madrid were far from their best in 2025. 

They looked disjointed in attack, lacked control in midfield, and, most concerningly, appeared disorganised in defence.

In fact, only one team across the top five European leagues conceded more goals than Real Madrid in 2025.

A Year of Disappointment for Real Madrid

Real Madrid failed to win any major trophy in the 2024/25 season. They lost the LaLiga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de Espana to arch-rivals Barcelona.

Barca, who look on course for another Spanish title this season, finished 10 points clear of Madrid in the 2025 LaLiga calendar year table.

Los Blancos did not do any better in Europe, exiting the Champions League in the quarter-finals after a 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal.

In the summer, they participated in the FIFA Club World Cup. In the semi-finals, Real Madrid suffered an embarrassing 4-0 defeat to PSG.

This season, they have slipped four points behind Barca despite holding a five-point advantage at one point. Meanwhile, in the Champions League, they are barely clinging on to an automatic promotion spot.

Real Madrid Had the Second Worst Defensive Record in 2025

According to Opta’s data, Real Madrid conceded a shocking 80 goals in 67 games across competitions in 2025, with one of those being an own goal.

They conceded an xG of 86.6 goals from 793 shots. An xG 0.11 was conceded per shot.

Across the top five European leagues, only Tottenham Hotspur conceded more goals. Spurs conceded 83 goals in 59 matches across competitions.

⚽️ pic.twitter.com/AMwQHVIlK8

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) December 30, 2025

Ligue 1 side Brest, who are 11th in the table this season, also conceded 80 goals in 2025.

Like every year, Real Madrid will try to win the LaLiga title and the Champions League this season. However, considering the state of their defence, it seems like an improbable dream.

They need to make some key changes in the coming year to return to the front of the field.

Three Defensive Changes Los Blancos Must Implement in 2025

Xabi Alonso’s future has grown uncertain due to Real Madrid’s poor performances this season. According to reports, Madrid have shortlisted managers to replace him if he does not get off to a strong start in 2026.

Irrespective of whether Alonso stays or goes, Los Blancos need to make three defensive tweaks to enjoy a more solid 2026.

Restore Defensive Stability Through Consistent Partnerships

Constant injuries and subsequent rotations prevented Real Madrid from building rhythm at the back in 2025. Establishing a solid centre-back pairing is key as it will improve communication, positioning, and decision-making under pressure.

Alonso also needs to dial down his tactical experimentations. While it can make it harder for opponents to build attacks, the constant changes take a toll on the defenders as well.

Improve Rest Defence

Rest Defence has become a key part of modern football. Since most of the teams are now quick on the break, it is key for all players to contribute defensively when an attack breaks down.

Real Madrid are somewhat compromised in that department, as neither Kylian Mbappe nor Vinicius Junior excels in that area. Arda Guler, who has enjoyed a more prominent role in the team, has also been caught flat-footed many times this season.

80 – Real Madrid have conceded 80 goals in 67 matches in 2025 across all competitions, only Tottenham Hotspur (83 in 59) have conceded more goals among all teams from Europe’s top five leagues this year (Brest also 80). Shocking. pic.twitter.com/VrdrMsYFIW

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) December 29, 2025

Clearly defining roles during transitions could help Real Madrid shield the often-exposed back line next season.

Acquire a Leader in Defence

Perhaps what Real Madrid are lacking the most this season is a leader in defence.

Seniors like David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Carvajal have spent a lot of time out injured this season. They are also out of contract next summer, and Los Blancos have yet to offer them contract extensions.

Eder Militao, who was the next in line to take up the leadership role, has also been ruled out for the season. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has a lot of experience thanks to his time with Liverpool, has also missed 10 of 18 LaLiga matches due to injuries.

Dean Huijsen, Raul Asencio, Fran Garcia, and Alvaro Carreras all lack experience, and Madrid needs to sign someone who does.

Dayot Upamecano and Marc Guehi have been linked with a move, but neither transfer would be straightforward.

The warning signs were clear throughout 2025. Unless Real Madrid act on them, and soon, 2026 may turn out to be another year to forget for the 15-time European champions.