The Santiago Bernabéu, a cathedral of football, typically hums with an almost arrogant confidence at the start of a new season. This year, however, despite a new tactical mind at the helm in Xabi Alonso and the dazzling arrival of Kylian Mbappe, an unfamiliar undercurrent of concern persists. A victory on opening day should, by all accounts, be cause for celebration. Yet, beneath the three points, a glaring question mark hangs over Real Madrid`s attack: is it truly clicking?

A New Era, Familiar Expectations

Xabi Alonso`s appointment ushered in an era many hoped would seamlessly merge tactical innovation with Real Madrid`s unyielding demand for dominance. A new-look backline, reportedly organized and stingy, managed to shackle Osasuna to a mere two off-target shots in their opener. This defensive solidity is commendable. However, the Bernabéu faithful expect more than just clean sheets; they demand fireworks, an onslaught of goals, and the kind of emphatic victories that strike fear into the hearts of rivals. The reality of a labored opening performance, even against a defensively minded opponent, suggests that the offensive machinery is still sputtering.

The season`s early stages are often forgiving, a time for new systems and personnel to gel. But for Real Madrid, with LaLiga fixtures intensifying rapidly and rivals like Barcelona always lurking with their own goal-scoring prowess, there`s little room for a prolonged adjustment period. The shadow of the Club World Cup, a physically and mentally taxing mid-season affair, also looms as a potential contributor to early fatigue, yet excuses are rarely tolerated in the Spanish capital.

The Mbappe-Vini Jr. Conundrum: A Tactical Tightrope

At the heart of Real Madrid`s attacking puzzle lies the integration of two of football`s most electrifying talents: Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. Mbappe`s debut goal was a promising sign, a testament to his individual brilliance. Yet, the subsequent lack of synergy with Vini Jr. has become a talking point. Vinicius, usually the chief orchestrator of chaos down the left flank, appeared somewhat subdued, perhaps struggling to find his rhythm or his accustomed space alongside the French superstar.

Alonso’s decision to substitute Vini Jr. early in the opener wasn`t merely a tactical tweak; it was a potent signal. As Alonso himself subtly hinted in pre-match media availability, “all the players are important and I`m counting on them, and since I make the squad list, anyone can be a starter.” This managerial prerogative, while standard, carries an extra weight when applied to a player of Vini Jr.`s stature. It suggests a willingness to make tough calls in pursuit of squad balance and optimal offensive output, a trait both admirable and potentially fraught with challenges. The question for Alonso is stark: how does he unlock the full potential of both Mbappe and Vinicius without one overshadowing or stifling the other? It’s a tactical tightrope walk that could define Real Madrid`s season.

Beyond the Stars: Injuries, Prospects, and the Need for Depth

Adding to Alonso`s intricate puzzle are external factors. The looming uncertainty around Rodrygo`s future, coupled with the significant blow of Jude Bellingham`s three-month sideline absence following shoulder surgery, deprives Real Madrid of crucial attacking firepower and midfield dynamism. Bellingham`s initial impact was immense, and his absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled by a single player.

This situation, however, presents an opportunity. Young talents like Arda Guler and Gonzalo Garcia have been thrust into the spotlight, gaining valuable minutes during the pre-season and Club World Cup. Guler, in particular, with his creative midfield presence, could emerge as the vital “secondary attacker” Alonso needs to alleviate pressure from Mbappe. This strategy – trusting youth to provide fresh impetus – is a familiar Real Madrid narrative, but one that now requires rapid maturation under intense pressure. Winning is one thing, but winning with authority, running up the score against lesser opposition, is what builds momentum and asserts title credentials.

LaLiga`s Relentless Grind: Every Goal Counts

The brutal truth of LaLiga is that goal difference isn`t a mere footnote; it`s a potential tie-breaker, a psychological weapon. When rivals like Barcelona are capable of netting five goals in a flash, Real Madrid cannot afford to merely eke out victories. They must stamp their authority. Atletico Madrid, already dropping points early, offers a stark reminder of how quickly the gap can open or close. For Alonso`s side, this isn`t just about accumulating points; it`s about making a statement, re-establishing themselves as the undisputed favorites, and creating a formidable aura around the Bernabéu.

Xabi Alonso`s early tenure is proving to be a fascinating, albeit challenging, tactical masterclass in the making. The pieces are there – world-class talent, promising youth, and a legendary club demanding success. The task at hand is to assemble this intricate jigsaw, ensuring that Real Madrid`s attack, with Mbappe at its spearhead, not only scores goals but does so with the flair and ruthlessness expected of a team vying for the highest honors. The season is young, but the clock is ticking for the Bernabéu`s unsettled crown to shine its brightest.