The 15-time European champions have failed to hoist a major trophy in back-to-back seasons—an unacceptable run of form for a team oozing with superstar talent and proven winners.
This Saturday's match marks the final game of a turbulent season. Fans will breathe a sigh of relief when it finally comes to an end against Athletic Club at the Bernabéu.
Match Preview
Athletic Club presents a challenge but not an overwhelming one. Ernesto Valverde's men sit 12th in the standings with just two victories in their last eight matches.
The Basque side has not secured three points at the Bernabéu in 21 years. Their last league triumph at the iconic stadium came in 2005.
Senior Players' Farewell
Final matches await for Dani Carvajal, David Alaba and manager Álvaro Arbeloa. This adds motivation for Los Blancos to end the season on a high note.
Real Madrid will also be without several key players: Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo, Éder Militão and Arda Güler remain long-term absentees.
Injury Updates
Federico Valverde returned to training after a head injury sustained in a confrontation with Aurélien Tchouaméni. He could feature as a substitute.
Andriy Lunin is set to return after illness, but Dani Ceballos remains out after a falling out with Arbeloa.
Vinicius Jr. is expected to miss the final game—potentially joining the Brazil national team early. Brahim Díaz or Franco Mastantuono could replace him.
Score Prediction
Real Madrid have recorded three clean sheets in their last four matches. They'll seek their first three consecutive clean sheets in 2025-26.
Prediction: Real Madrid 2–1 Athletic Club
Without Vinicius Jr., Madrid lose their leading goalscorer in 2026—he has found the net 17 times since the calendar flipped. However, Kylian Mbappé will lead the attack.
It won't be a vintage performance, but Arbeloa's men will do enough to secure the win and give their departing seniors a proper sendoff in front of the Bernabéu faithful.