For Real Madrid, the 2025/26 season has turned into a profound disappointment. A club built on pressure, dominance, and trophies is now not only missing major titles but also watching its biggest superstars underperform. Fans expected this star-studded lineup to respond to criticism, but the opposite has happened throughout the campaign. Even more concerning is that the same issues have persisted for a second consecutive season.
Attention naturally falls on Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde—four players seen as the cornerstone of Real Madrid’s present and future. According to Transfermarkt, their combined market value is approximately €610 million: Mbappé at €200M, Vinícius at €150M, Bellingham at €140M, and Valverde at €120M. On paper, few teams in world football can match their individual quality, but on the pitch, reality tells a different story.
Mbappé has scored 41 goals this season but is increasingly facing criticism from some Real Madrid supporters. Despite impressive personal numbers, many fans believe his contributions have not elevated the team in crucial moments. A growing perception is that the French striker is becoming disconnected from the collective structure, often appearing isolated and more focused on individual moments than team responsibility.
Vinícius’s situation is equally complicated. With only one year left on his contract and renewal talks unresolved, the Brazilian has also come under fire for his role in internal tensions related to former coach Xabi Alonso. As for Bellingham, he has failed to replicate the form that made him a standout player in Europe last season. Injuries disrupted his start to the campaign, and his performances since returning have been below expectations. Perhaps the most frustrating case is Valverde—the Uruguayan midfielder, long considered a future leader in the dressing room, has shown visible frustration this season. Being shuffled between multiple positions has affected his rhythm, and a conflict with Aurélien Tchouaméni has become another symbol of the team’s internal discord.
For Real Madrid, the biggest concern this season is that a squad brimming with elite talent has failed to develop the necessary mentality and leadership.
