Real Madrid have officially registered a 40-man squad for the 2025/26 Champions League, and new head coach Xabi Alonso has made some surprising calls ahead of their opening clash against Olympique de Marseille at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The European giants begin their campaign at home in their most cherished competition, where they are clear favorites to take all three points. However, memories of last season’s early exit serve as a reminder that no opponent can be underestimated.
Among the surprises in Alonso’s squad is the absence of Sergio Mestre, despite his strong potential. Reports suggest that the club wants him to take on a key role in the youth setup this season. Meanwhile, Fran González and Javi Navarro have been handed spots despite not featuring in the early weeks of La Liga.
After a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, Real Madrid are determined to bounce back. The squad looks sharper, more structured, and physically prepared to mount a serious run in Europe’s elite tournament. Fans will be eager to see whether Alonso’s tactical vision can inspire Los Blancos to reclaim continental glory.
Real Madrid’s Champions League squad:
Goalkeepers : Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, Fran González and Javi Navarro.
Defenders : Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raul Asencio, Alvaro Carreras, Fran Garcia, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy, Dean Huijsen, Diego Aguado, Jesus Fortea, David Jimenez, Joan Martinez and Victor Valdepeñas.
Midfielders : Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde, Aurelién Tchouaméni, Arda Guler, Dani Ceballos, Jorge Cestero, Pol Fortuny, Manuel Angel, César Palacios, Cristian David, Hugo De Llanos and Thiago Pitarch.
Forwards : Vinicius, Endrick Felipe, Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo Goes, Gonzalo García, Brahim Díaz, Franco Mastantuono and Daniel Yáñez.
