Real Madrid will aim to extend their perfect start to the 2025-26 La Liga season when they travel to San Sebastián to face Real Sociedad. Under manager Xabi Alonso, the club has secured four consecutive victories, placing them at the top of the league table heading into the match.
Comfortable wins against Osasuna, Real Oviedo, and Mallorca gave Los Blancos an ideal beginning to their campaign. Their next challenge is at the Reale Arena against a Real Sociedad side that is still searching for its first win of the season. Madrid’s confidence will be high, as the squad returned from the international break without any new injuries.
However, Alonso will still be without several key players. Jude Bellingham, Ferland Mendy, and Endrick remain unavailable, while Antonio Rüdiger is sidelined with a thigh injury. Eduardo Camavinga will also miss the trip after suffering a setback in his recovery from a sprained ankle.
Predicted Real Madrid XI vs. Real Sociedad
GK: Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian has conceded just one goal in three matches this season, largely untroubled behind a solid defensive line.
RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold – Still seeking his first goal contribution in La Liga, the former Liverpool star faces continued competition for his starting spot from Dani Carvajal.
CB: Éder Militão – The Brazilian defender comes into the match well-rested after remaining in Madrid during the international break.
CB: Dean Huijsen – Arguably the most impressive of the summer signings, Huijsen is expected to resume his partnership alongside Militão in central defense.
LB: Álvaro Carreras – Carreras has delivered strong performances on the left flank, establishing himself as the first-choice option even with Ferland Mendy’s eventual return.
CM: Fede Valverde – With an unmatched work rate, Valverde continues to be one of Real Madrid’s most crucial and often unsung heroes in midfield.
CM: Aurélien Tchouaméni – The Frenchman has enjoyed a brilliant start to the season, quickly becoming an irreplaceable component of Alonso’s midfield.
CM: Arda Güler – After scoring his first goal of the season to spark the comeback against Mallorca, the 20-year-old may have his minutes managed after playing 176 minutes for Türkiye over the break.
RW: Franco Mastantuono – While the right-wing position remains contested, Mastantuono appears to be the current preference in the pecking order over Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz.
ST: Kylian Mbappé – The striker is in superb form, particularly after surpassing Thierry Henry to become France’s second all-time leading goalscorer.
LW: Vinícius Júnior – Having rested during the past two weeks, the forward will be looking to score for the third consecutive match.
