from Real Madrid The start of the 2024/25 La Liga season did not go according to plan as Carlo Ancelotti’s defending champions drew 1-1 with Mallorca.
Kylian Mbappe’s league debut was the focus of attention before kick-off, but the hosts failed to read the script and struggled to secure a point in Palma.
Mbappé’s arrival in Madrid has sparked a wave of attention on the reigning Spanish and European champions as a throwback to their Galácticos era.
However, a frustrating result ahead of a demanding campaign will be a concern for Ancelotti, who admitted his side lacked balance in the Balearics.
Barcelona’s opening win over Valencia means Real Madrid are already looking to make up ground in the title race, and if they are to retain their league crown, Ancelotti will have to break the “La Liga curse” in Madrid.
Failure to win on the opening day has been a bad omen for Real Madrid in recent seasons, as the last five times Real Madrid have failed to win their first title defence match, they have failed to retain the league trophy.
In three of those cases, Barcelona won the league: Atlético de Madrid and Valencia won one each.
Ancelotti and Real Madrid’s next game will be their first home game of the season when Real Valladolid visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on August 25.
