It seems that you don't know Real Madrid that much, or you just choose to underestimate them that they haven't made any effort to improve their performance and there is no evidence on that. Have you forgotten that Real Madrid only get worse in a season and become better the next season because they always learn from their mistakes. They have the financial strength to buy any player they want in order to strengthen and cover up the loop holes in in team.
Perhaps it's not that you don't know Real Madrid well enough, but rather that you dislike Real Madrid, which makes it seem like you don't know them. Personally, I haven't seen Real Madrid slump for more than two seasons, and Real Madrid usually bounces back after a season of failure in La Liga. But next season, I'm also unsure whether Real Madrid will be able to bounce back and win La Liga, as finishing runner-up is not a desirable position for a Real Madrid team with a considerable trophy collection in major competitions, including La Liga.