The anticipation is reaching fever pitch in Madrid as the city braces itself for one of football’s most storied rivalries: Atletico Madrid versus Real Madrid. With the clash set for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the electrifying Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, all eyes are on Xabi Alonso, who will be leading Los Blancos into his very first Madrid derby as head coach. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the atmosphere in the Spanish capital is already buzzing with excitement and nerves.
In a series of pre-match press conferences held on Friday, Alonso addressed the media with the poise and insight that defined his playing career. He wasted no time underlining the significance of the derby, stating, “This match is not just another game; it’s a clash of two giants, deeply rooted in history and rivalry.” The Madrid derby, after all, is more than a contest for three points—it’s a battle for pride, legacy, and momentum in the La Liga title race.
Real Madrid come into the fixture riding a wave of confidence. The team has notched up seven consecutive wins across all competitions this season, sitting pretty at the top of the league table with 18 points. Their form has been nothing short of impressive, and fans are daring to dream of another title run. But as Alonso was quick to caution, “We can’t be complacent. Just because we take to the field doesn’t mean we’re going to win. We have to be consistent in our performance. The more we train ourselves to be active, the more games we’ll win.”
On the other side, Atletico Madrid, managed by the ever-resilient Diego Simeone, have made what Alonso described as “smart changes” this year. “Atleti is evolving. They’ve made some smart changes this year. It’s early days and they’ll be aiming for everything this season. It won’t just be emotional, it’ll be tactically and physically demanding too. They’re a team with a lot of energy. We have to be prepared for the high tempo,” Alonso remarked, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
When it comes to key players, the spotlight will shine on Antoine Griezmann and João Félix for Atletico, both capable of unlocking defenses with a moment of brilliance. For Real Madrid, Karim Benzema’s predatory instincts in front of goal and the pace and flair of Vinícius Júnior are expected to test Atletico’s famously disciplined backline. Alonso didn’t shy away from praising his Brazilian winger, saying, “Vini is a fundamental player for us. The other day [against Levante] he played a great game. I really liked a lot of things that he did. I like to see him smiling.”
Yet, Vinícius’s future has been a topic of intense speculation leading up to the derby. His contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026, and reports suggest he’s seeking a salary in the region of Kylian Mbappé’s, something the Real Madrid board seems hesitant to match. Despite the off-field uncertainty, Alonso has kept his focus on the present, emphasizing Vinícius’s importance to the squad. “We mustn’t stray from what has happened. We have to be prepared. For the weapons we have. Vini is fundamental for us. I liked what he did the other day, I like to see him smile. And for us, the preparation will be the same,” Alonso reiterated.
Selection headaches are a coach’s dream when everyone is fit, and Alonso confirmed that his squad is in good health. “We have everyone ready. Everyone has recovered well. No one is injured or anything. We’ll decide tomorrow.” This gives him a full arsenal to choose from, with possible starters including Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga. Bellingham, who Alonso described as “an attacking midfielder. He can participate in the build-up and the finish. He has that ability to cover a lot of ground. We have to get the most out of him so that he can make a difference. I need his flexibility and versatility. Some players are more static, and Jude is not one of them.”
Alonso’s tactical philosophy going into the derby is clear: adaptability and unpredictability. “The more flexible we can be, the better. We have to try to be unpredictable too. We have the technical and physical ability, but without the ball we’ve taken steps forward and we can’t lose that,” he explained. Atletico are expected to rely on their trademark defensive solidity and counter-attacking threat, while Real Madrid will look to dominate possession and create scoring chances through their dynamic midfield.
The mental aspect looms large in a fixture of this magnitude. “The players must be mentally sharp. The pressure is immense, and the ability to handle that pressure can define the outcome of the match,” Alonso observed. For some of his squad, it will be their first taste of the Metropolitano cauldron. “There’s always a first time for everything. We need everyone for tomorrow and for them to have that feeling. So they can experience the build-up, the game itself, and the aftermath. Some celebrate and others don’t, but that’s the story of derbies.”
Historically, the Madrid derby has delivered drama and spectacle. This will be the 120th meeting at the Metropolitano, with Real Madrid holding a slim edge—45 wins to Atletico’s 43 at home. In all competitions, these two titans have faced off over 200 times, with the scales tipped slightly in favor of Los Blancos. But as any seasoned football fan knows, form and history often count for little when the whistle blows in a derby.
The atmosphere at the Metropolitano is expected to be nothing short of electric. Alonso, reflecting on the occasion, said, “It’s a nice atmosphere, derbies are special. Even in the days leading up to it, you can feel it in the city and the community. When you know what’s at stake, it motivates you more, you want to do well. We expect a powerful atmosphere.” The passionate red and white faithful will do their best to make life uncomfortable for their city rivals, hoping to inspire Atletico to a statement victory.
As the match approaches, both teams know that the implications stretch far beyond bragging rights. With La Liga’s title race shaping up to be as tight as ever, every point is precious. “Every point matters in La Liga, and this match could have significant ramifications for the title race. We understand the stakes, and we are prepared to give our all,” Alonso concluded, meeting the moment with characteristic determination.
With both squads at full strength, star players in form, and an entire city holding its breath, the Madrid derby promises to be a spectacle for the ages. Whether it’s the tactical chess match between Alonso and Simeone, the individual brilliance of Griezmann, Benzema, or Vinícius, or the roar of the Metropolitano crowd, Saturday night in Madrid is set to deliver football at its most thrilling. The action is nearly upon us—and the world will be watching.
