Real Madrid are gearing up for their second La Liga outing of the 2025/26 season, with excitement mounting ahead of their visit to newly-promoted Real Oviedo on August 24, 2025. The fixture carries extra intrigue—not only is it a chance for the Merengues to build on their opening-day victory, but it also marks a return to familiar territory for head coach Xabi Alonso, who will be facing his former Spain teammate, Santi Cazorla, now plying his trade at Oviedo. The anticipation is palpable in both camps, as fans and pundits alike wonder how Alonso’s side will respond to early-season pressures and the unique challenges posed by their hosts.
Real Madrid’s campaign began on a positive note, albeit with a narrow margin. A solitary Kylian Mbappe penalty secured a 1-0 win over CA Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu on August 18, 2025. That result, while not a statement performance, offered a glimpse of the new era under Alonso. The Spaniard, newly installed as head coach, has been quick to stamp his authority and vision on the squad, but he knows there’s work to be done if Madrid are to wrestle the title away from reigning champions Barcelona.
Addressing the media on August 23, Alonso set the tone for what he expects will be a tough encounter in Oviedo. “I’m sure it’s a special match for Oviedo and its fans. Now we’re going to play, and it’s also very important for us to continue growing away from home, to be competitive, and no matter where we play, to continue performing at a high level,” Alonso explained. He emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and building chemistry, especially so early in the season. “It’s the third week since we started, but we’re excited for tomorrow’s match.”
One of the biggest storylines heading into the game is the potential first start for Argentine sensation Franco Mastantuono. The teenager, signed from River Plate, has been the subject of much speculation in recent days. When questioned about Mastantuono’s readiness, Alonso offered a measured, yet optimistic response: “I saw him in good shape the other day. He had a good impact, good energy. Since he’s in the squad, he has a chance to play like everyone else.” The manager further elaborated on Mastantuono’s versatility, noting, “He can play both in the frontline and as a playmaker. He played many times as a No. 10 at River Plate. He has the quality to play both. He has that mobility, that ability to connect with those around him…”
The subplot of Alonso facing Santi Cazorla adds a nostalgic flavor to the fixture. Reflecting on their shared history, Alonso said, “I have spectacular memories of him, as a player and teammate. At Euro 2008, everyone who was there made a great locker room. You can see the affection the fans have for him, and then, in terms of football, he’s an exceptional player. I’m very happy for everything he’s done. He’s back home, and I hope he enjoys being a role model in Oviedo.”
Of course, much of the focus also falls on Real Madrid’s attacking trident. Kylian Mbappe, who opened his La Liga account with a penalty last week, is still finding his rhythm after an illness-affected Club World Cup earlier this summer. Alonso was clear about the Frenchman’s importance: “I’m going to try to help him and for him to help the team win games. He is a fundamental part of the team. The better the pieces fit together will be one of the keys to the season to be able to play as a team.” Despite media speculation about setting a specific goal tally for Mbappe, Alonso insisted that the focus remains on collective success, not individual milestones.
Vinicius Junior, meanwhile, has come under scrutiny for a somewhat subdued start to the season. Yet, Alonso was quick to defend the Brazilian and stress the importance of patience. “I already said the other day that the context of the World Cup is a little different. We’ve only played one game and the statistics have to be taken with a grain of salt. All the players are important and I count on them and since I make the call-up anyone can be a starter. I see him well. We have been in the season for a very short time. We are just getting started. Everyone is looking forward to having a good year and they are all with a good predisposition. That is fundamental.”
Rodrygo’s situation has also generated headlines, with rumors swirling about a possible departure before the transfer window closes. Alonso, however, left no doubt about who calls the shots: “For me the season has just started. We’ve only played one game. All the decisions to play and select the line-up are mine, solely and exclusively. I talk to many players and I’ve spoken to Rodrygo too, of course.” The message is clear: competition for places is fierce, but the manager retains full control over selection and tactics.
Set-piece duties are another area of intrigue, with Alonso revealing the club’s embarrassment of riches. “We haven’t been able to work too hard yet, but there are players who have a lot of quality: Arda, Trent, Mastantuono, Kylian… We still have things to do. We do have plenty of options.” This flexibility extends to formation and playing style, as Alonso explained: “We talk a lot about the game, about how we can improve. With just a few games, you have little information, and we have to analyze. There are profiles for playing different systems, keeping a clear idea and why we want to do things. We can be flexible.”
Midfield stability has been a cornerstone of Madrid’s early season, with Aurelien Tchouameni emerging as a critical figure. After a rocky start last campaign, the Frenchman has won over both fans and the new manager. Alonso has made it clear that Tchouameni is non-transferable, with the club reportedly rejecting at least two approaches for him during the summer window. As one club insider put it, “He is not for sale.” Tchouameni’s resurgence has been so impressive that a contract extension in 2026 could be on the cards if his form continues. For now, he’s a linchpin in Alonso’s tactical setup, and his continued development is seen as vital to Madrid’s ambitions.
The squad’s depth is being tested early, with Jude Bellingham currently absent. Alonso addressed the situation with characteristic pragmatism: “You have to adapt. No one is going to play every minute; everyone will have their role.” The manager’s faith in his roster is unwavering, though he acknowledged, “I’m happy with the squad we have, but you always have to be prepared.”
As Real Madrid prepare to face Real Oviedo, the mood is one of cautious optimism. Alonso’s press conference made it clear that the team is focused on growth, adaptability, and unity. The season is young, but the stakes are already high, and every decision—whether it’s a tactical tweak, a lineup shuffle, or a transfer stance—could shape the months ahead. For now, all eyes turn to the Estadio Carlos Tartiere, where Madrid’s new era under Alonso faces its next big test. Will the Merengues keep pace with Barcelona and assert themselves as early title contenders? The answer, as always in football, will play out on the pitch.
