The biggest source of problems for Real Madrid last year was the lack of defenders. This year we see that they have transferred quality defenders. They have added both the young talent of Spain, Huijsen, and the Englishman TAA to their team. Now their defensive zone is stronger next year. Also, injured players will recover and join the team. What I am really curious about is how they will play in the FIFA Club World Cup. Because this could be a small summary of next year.
Madrid have problem with defend last season but several top defender signed should be better for Madrid at Champion League match for next season, after success signing Trend Arnold and Huijsen now Madrid have many option for defend position with usually put the holding midfielder as central defender position. Madrid have prepare team early for FIFA Club World Cup match and new tactician Xabi Alonso have many time for preparing teams get better performance for next season exactly at Champion League match.
In this season after new format adopting, Madrid failed reach the directly qualifying round to knock out round and have face playoff round how possibility for this season easily finish at top 8th standings position or Madrid must get playoff round?
Xabi Alonso will most likely be able to lead Madrid to perform better next season, with the overhaul of the defensive line that has been done, Madrid should be able to perform more consistently. The competition for trophies will certainly be very competitive, many teams have learned how to get around the change in match format, and with the depth of the squad they have, Madrid should be able to appear dominant from the start of the season. It was very disappointing to see Madrid struggling in the League Phase last season, player injuries left Ancelotti short of rotation options. We'll see how Xabi Alonso starts his new task in the Club World Cup, that will give a little idea of how strong Madrid will be next season.