The Daily Star Ireland
The Champions League returns to the Santiago Bernabéu with Real Madrid hosting Olympique de Marseille on September 16. This clash brings together two historic clubs on very different trajectories—Madrid chasing redemption after last season’s disappointment, and Marseille eager to prove they belong again on Europe’s biggest stage.
Real Madrid’s New Era Under Xabi Alonso
With 15 European Cups to their name, Real Madrid remain the most successful club in the competition’s history. Yet last season ended in frustration, as the Merengues failed to make the top eight in the league phase and crashed out in the quarter-finals against Arsenal. The setback accelerated changes at the club, most notably the arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach. His appointment signals the start of a new cycle, marked by tactical refinement and defensive reinforcements.
Domestically, Madrid have begun the new La Liga campaign with intent, beating Osasuna (1-0), Real Oviedo (3-0), and Mallorca (2-1) before facing Real Sociedad just ahead of the international break. The squad has been reshaped: Luka Modrić departed after a glittering run of six Champions League titles, while Lucas Vázquez also moved on. In their place, Madrid added fresh talent, including Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, Argentine prodigy Franco Mastantuono, and youngsters like Dean Huijsen and Carreras. Injuries remain a challenge, with Ferland Mendy, Antonio Rüdiger, and Bellingham all sidelined, though Eduardo Camavinga is expected to return.
Marseille’s Rollercoaster Start
For Marseille, this season marks their long-awaited return to the Champions League after missing out since the 2022–23 campaign. Supporters are relishing the occasion, though the club’s start to the new season has been anything but smooth. A promising summer transfer window raised hopes, but results quickly dipped, including a costly 1-0 defeat to Rennes despite playing with a man advantage. Internal tensions between players like Rabiot and Rowe further disrupted preparations, leading to late adjustments in the squad.
Marseille recently steadied themselves with a win over Lorient, but challenges remain. New coach Roberto De Zerbi cannot count on several unregistered players (Harit, Maupay, Garcia, Lirola), while injuries to Medina and Peaceão limit defensive options. On a brighter note, Kondogbia has returned to training and could feature, while recruits such as Angel Gomes, Benjamin Pavard, and Nayef Aguerd add depth. Veteran Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who famously scored at the Bernabéu for Barcelona years ago, will be especially motivated if given minutes against Madrid.
What to Expect
Madrid’s pedigree, home advantage, and superior squad depth make them heavy favorites. The Bernabéu has been a fortress, with Los Blancos collecting 16 points from their last 18 at home in the competition. Marseille, though strengthened, remain vulnerable on the road and historically struggle against Europe’s elite.
Tactically, Madrid are likely to control possession with Alexander-Arnold offering width from deep and Vinícius Júnior spearheading attacks. Marseille may look to sit compact and strike on the counter, hoping that Aubameyang or Greenwood can capitalize on Madrid’s occasional defensive gaps. Still, De Zerbi’s men will need near-perfection to avoid being overrun.
Prediction
Real Madrid are expected to open their Champions League campaign strongly. Marseille may show fight, but their inconsistency and absences make an upset unlikely.
Prediction: Real Madrid 3 – 1 Marseille
