New faces needed: Real Madrid’s project for next season is in motion

The roster won’t look the same when Real Madrid begin preparations for the 2026-27 season. Club executives and the coaching staff agree that several changes are needed, even if they avoid using the word “clear‑out”, a term people love to throw around but one that’s far removed from how modern soccer actually operates - especially at major clubs. Center back and central midfield are the positions causing the most concern inside the Madrid hierarchy.

With the new year underway, every club is obligated to start planning for what lies ahead - analyzing, scouting, and identifying the areas in need of reinforcement. Results usually dictate and accelerate some of those decisions. Madrid is no exception, even if recent defeats won’t push the club’s leadership into making additional short‑term moves. The loss to Benfica has reignited an alarm that seemed to have been silenced following Xabi Alonso’s departure and Álvaro Arbeloa’s arrival. Even so, the club isn’t planning to veer off course, despite calls for all kinds of signings.

Fresh blood at the Bernabéu

That said, internal analysis at Valdebebas fully acknowledges that the squad needs new faces - players who think quickly on the ball and legs capable of driving the team in the way today’s soccer demands, something Madrid have struggled with over the past season and a half.

In recent days the club has been inundated with player proposals, but Madrid continues to steer clear of the winter transfer market. The sporting department knows there are several players who are nearing their limit and approaching their final months as members of the squad, especially in defense.

In midfield, breaking with the long‑term strategy - one that avoids signing players over the age of 20 unless they arrive on a free transfer - seems unlikely. There’s broad agreement that Vitinha is one of those players capable of making a real difference, but luring the Portuguese from Paris Saint-Germain wouldn’t be straightforward. It will be up to the player and his camp to make the first move. In any case, the search is already underway. Among young prospects, several stand out, but one name in particular has captured Madrid’s attention: Kees Smit, the AZ Alkmaar midfielder.

Will Arbeloa stay on as boss?

As for the head coach situation, Arbeloa’s performance will dictate what happens next. That’s the club’s internal stance, and they don’t hide the fact that they have time to make the right decision - something they believe did not happen last April, when they appointed Alonso. They have not spoken to any coach so far.

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