Real Madrid squad vs Alavés is now confirmed, and it comes with two pieces of welcome news for Xabi Alonso: Kylian Mbappé is back in the group, and Dean Huijsen returns to reinforce a stretched defensive unit.
Madrid travel to face Alavés in La Liga this Sunday, looking to steady their rhythm and pick up a vital away win. With injuries continuing to squeeze the options—especially at the back—every returning name matters, and this squad list shows Madrid finally getting a little breathing room.
Mbappé’s inclusion is the headline. Even if he’s not 100% ready to start, simply having him available changes the match plan. It forces Alavés to defend deeper, respect runs in behind, and prepare for a different level of threat if the game becomes tight late on. For Real Madrid, that’s the kind of edge that can turn a stubborn night into three points.
Huijsen’s return is just as important in context. Madrid’s defensive resources have been thin, and the squad list reflects that reality clearly—there aren’t many specialist defenders available, so flexibility will be key again. That’s why names like Valverde and Valdepeñas stand out: Madrid may need to shuffle roles and ask players to cover unfamiliar zones, depending on how the game develops.
Real Madrid squad vs Alavés (official list)
Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, Sergio Mestre.
Defenders: Asencio, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Joan Martínez, Valdepeñas.
Midfielders: Bellingham, Valverde, Tchouameni, Arda Güler, Ceballos, Cestero, Thiago.
Forwards: Vini Jr, Mbappé, Rodrygo, Gonzalo, Brahim, Mastantuono.
RMxtra talking points
1) Mbappé changes the ceiling
Whether he starts or features from the bench, Madrid gain a game-breaking option. His presence also helps Rodrygo, Vinícius Jr., and Brahim—because the defensive attention can’t sit on just one attacker. If Madrid create space in transition, Mbappé is the type of player who punishes it instantly.
2) Defensive planning will be creative again
With limited natural defenders available, Madrid may once more rely on balance and positioning rather than pure numbers. There’s a realistic path where Valverde is used at right-back, with Rüdiger anchoring centrally, and the remaining slots decided by form and match needs. The key will be keeping distances short and avoiding cheap transitions—Alavés will look for direct moments, second balls, and set-piece pressure.
3) Midfield control is the safety net
If Madrid want a calmer night, the midfield has to control the tempo. Bellingham’s intensity, Tchouameni’s stability, and Valverde’s engine can make this a game Madrid dictates rather than survives. Arda Güler and Ceballos also give Alonso options depending on whether he wants more control between the lines or more bite in duels.
Match details
Competition: La Liga
Fixture: Alavés vs Real Madrid
Date: Sunday, 14 December 2025
Kick-off: 21:00 CET
Venue: Mendizorroza
RMxtra will have full coverage around kick-off, plus the key takeaways once the final whistle blows.