Real Madrid will be aiming to continue their perfect start to the 2025–26 La Liga campaign when they welcome Mallorca to the iconic Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday night. With two wins from two, Los Blancos have already begun to assert themselves as serious contenders for the title, and the visit of a struggling Mallorca side presents an opportunity to further solidify their early momentum. The stakes are high—not just for the points, but for the psychological edge that comes with entering the international break unbeaten and brimming with confidence. For Real Madrid, every match is a statement, and this fixture is no exception.
Los Blancos have collected six points from their opening two fixtures, placing them third in the La Liga standings, behind only on goal difference to the early pace-setters. Their victories over Osasuna and Real Oviedo were not without challenges, but they demonstrated the kind of grit and individual brilliance that has long defined the club’s identity. Against Osasuna, Real Madrid struggled to find rhythm and cohesion, particularly in the midfield, but a moment of magic from Kylian Mbappé was enough to secure a narrow 1-0 win. The French superstar, who arrived in the summer amid great fanfare, has already begun to justify the hype, offering flashes of brilliance that hint at the transformative impact he could have on the team’s fortunes.
The second match, a 3-0 triumph over Real Oviedo, was more convincing in terms of scoreline, though the performance still left room for improvement. Mbappé once again stole the show, netting twice with clinical precision before Vinícius Júnior added a third late on to seal the win. The result was a testament to Real Madrid’s attacking depth and their ability to capitalize on key moments, even when not operating at full throttle. Manager Xabi Alonso, now in his second season at the helm, has instilled a sense of tactical discipline and fluidity, blending youth and experience in a way that has reinvigorated the squad. With Barcelona breathing down their necks and other contenders like Villarreal and Athletic Bilbao also off to strong starts, Real Madrid know that consistency will be paramount in the weeks ahead.
The title race is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Barcelona, with their formidable attacking arsenal, have also begun the season with two wins, though their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Levante. That match served as a reminder that while firepower is essential, defensive solidity remains crucial in a long campaign. Real Madrid, traditionally known for their attacking flair, have made strides in tightening their backline, and Alonso’s emphasis on structure and balance is beginning to bear fruit. The margin for error is slim, and every point counts in a league where the top teams are separated by fine margins.
Historically, Real Madrid have enjoyed a dominant record against Mallorca, winning 46 of their previous 75 encounters. Last season, they completed the double over the Balearic outfit, including a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the corresponding fixture at the Bernabéu. That match saw Real Madrid tested by a resilient Mallorca side, but ultimately their quality prevailed. The psychological advantage of such a record cannot be understated, especially when facing a team that has struggled to find consistency. For Mallorca, the challenge is not just tactical but mental—they must overcome the weight of history and the aura of the Bernabéu if they are to pull off an upset.
Mallorca’s start to the season has been far less auspicious. Their opening match against Barcelona ended in a 3-0 defeat, compounded by the sending off of two players in the first half. The early dismissals left them with a mountain to climb, and while they showed resilience, the gulf in class was evident. Their second match, a 1-1 draw at home to Celta Vigo, offered some redemption, with Mateu Morey scoring a late equalizer to salvage a point. However, with just one point from two matches, Mallorca find themselves in 16th place, and the pressure is mounting. Manager Jagoba Arrasate, known for his pragmatic approach and ability to galvanize underdog teams, will need to rally his squad for what promises to be one of their toughest tests of the season.
Despite their current position, Mallorca are not without ambition. Last season, they finished 10th in La Liga, just four points shy of the European places. That campaign was marked by disciplined defending, effective counter-attacking, and a strong home record. The challenge now is to replicate that form on the road, particularly against elite opposition. A win over Real Madrid would not only be a massive boost in terms of points but also a statement of intent—a signal that Mallorca are capable of competing with the best. However, their record at the Bernabéu is dismal, with their last away win against Real Madrid in the top flight dating back to May 2009. Breaking that streak will require a near-perfect performance.
Real Madrid, for their part, will be without several key players due to injury. Jude Bellingham, Endrick, Ferland Mendy, and Eduardo Camavinga are all sidelined, though Alonso has no fresh concerns heading into the match. The absence of Bellingham and Camavinga, in particular, affects the midfield dynamics, but the depth of the squad allows for seamless adjustments. Alonso is expected to stick with the same lineup that started against Real Oviedo, with one notable change—Vinícius Júnior is likely to replace Rodrygo in the final third, bringing pace and creativity to the attack. Dani Carvajal is set to retain his spot at right-back ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Antonio Rüdiger and Dean Huijsen are expected to continue their partnership at center-back, keeping Eder Militão on the bench.
The tactical setup will likely see Real Madrid dominate possession, using their midfield trio to control the tempo and create openings. Mbappé’s movement and ability to stretch defenses will be key, while Vinícius offers a direct threat down the left flank. The interplay between the forwards and the midfielders will be crucial in breaking down Mallorca’s defensive lines, especially if the visitors opt for a low block. Alonso’s emphasis on quick transitions and positional rotations has added a new dimension to Real Madrid’s play, and the team is beginning to show signs of cohesion and fluidity.
Mallorca, meanwhile, will welcome back Vedat Muriqi and Manu Morlanes after their suspensions, and both are expected to start. Muriqi, in particular, is a vital presence in attack, offering aerial prowess and physicality. His ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play will be essential if Mallorca are to relieve pressure and mount counter-attacks. Pablo Torre, a summer signing from Barcelona, is set to operate in the number 10 role, providing creativity and linking midfield with attack. Sergi Darder and Toni Lato are also expected to retain their places, with Lato potentially deployed in a more central role to add steel and composure.
Arrasate’s game plan will likely revolve around defensive organization and quick transitions. Mallorca will aim to frustrate Real Madrid, limit space in the final third, and exploit any lapses in concentration. Set pieces could be a key avenue for the visitors, especially with Muriqi’s aerial threat. The midfield battle will be intense, and Torre’s ability to find pockets of space and deliver incisive passes could be pivotal. However, the challenge of containing Mbappé and Vinícius is formidable, and Mallorca’s defenders will need to be at their absolute best.
Beyond the tactical nuances, this match carries emotional and psychological weight. For Real Madrid, it is about maintaining momentum, building confidence, and reinforcing their status as title contenders. The Bernabéu crowd will expect nothing less than a commanding performance, and the players will be keen to deliver. For Mallorca, it is an opportunity to defy expectations, to show resilience, and to lay down a marker. The contrast in ambitions and resources is stark, but football has a way of leveling the playing field, at least for ninety minutes.
As the international break approaches, both teams will be eager to end this phase of the season on a high. Real Madrid, with their eyes firmly set on the title, cannot afford to drop points, especially at home. Every match is a building block, and Alonso’s project is still in its formative stages. The integration of new signings, the development of young talents, and the refinement of tactical systems are all ongoing processes. A win against Mallorca would not only secure three points but also reinforce the belief that this team is on the right path.
Mallorca, on the other hand, are navigating a different journey. Their goal is stability, progression, and perhaps a push for European qualification. Matches like this are tests of character and ambition. A positive result would energize the squad, boost morale, and provide a platform for growth. Arrasate’s leadership will be crucial, and the players must rise to the occasion.
In the end, Saturday night at the Bernabéu promises drama, intensity, and high-quality football. Real Madrid will look to impose their will, while Mallorca will seek to resist and counter. The outcome will hinge on execution, discipline, and moments of brilliance. For fans, it is a spectacle; for players, a challenge; and for both clubs, a step in their respective journeys. Whether it ends in triumph or disappointment, the match will leave its mark—and the story of the 2025–26 La Liga season will continue to unfold.
