Borussia Dortmund recently experienced what many teams have: facing Real Madrid in a European final is often predictable.
Despite being outplayed for most of the match, Real Madrid clinched their 15th European title with a 2-0 victory at Wembley Stadium last Saturday. Over the past 11 years, Madrid has won the Champions League six times, with their last defeat in a European final occurring in 1983.
Real Madrid’s ability to prevail in crucial moments is well-known, and their dominance in Europe is expected to grow even stronger with the anticipated announcement of Kylian Mbappe’s free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain this week.
Kylian Mbappe is widely seen as the heir to football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. His potential collaboration with Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr at Real Madrid presents a daunting challenge for European clubs. As the captain of France, Mbappe’s remarkable record of 364 goal contributions in 308 matches for PSG is expected to significantly boost Madrid’s attack, which already includes Vinicius and Rodrygo. Additionally, the acquisition of Brazilian talent Endrick from Palmeiras for £51 million strengthens Madrid’s forward lineup.
This youthful group, averaging under 22 years of age, positions Madrid to potentially dominate European football for the next decade. Mbappe, in particular, is set to shine within Madrid’s star-studded team. Although he may need to adjust to playing as a central striker—a position he has not favored at PSG or with the French national team—his preference for the left wing could be challenged by Vinicius’s role there, with Rodrygo likely on the right. Bellingham is expected to take on a more defensive midfield role alongside Federico Valverde and either Aurelien Tchouameni or Eduardo Camavinga.
Former Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, now a pundit for TNT Sports, suggested that Bellingham’s goal-scoring might decrease next season due to a change in the team’s system and his position. However, Mbappe’s arrival is anticipated to introduce a new dynamic to the squad, and coach Carlo Ancelotti, who has won the Champions League five times, is seen as the right person to integrate him successfully. Ancelotti recently celebrated with his team in Madrid.
With these strategic changes, Real Madrid is already being tipped as the favorite to win the Champions League again next season. Bellingham expressed excitement about the possibility of teaming up with Mbappe, noting that a clinical striker was the only missing piece for the team. Mbappe’s potential addition could elevate Madrid to new heights, presenting a formidable challenge for their European rivals.