Introduction

As the 2025-26 football season approaches, Europe's elite clubs are under immense pressure to rectify the issues that plagued their previous campaigns. From Manchester City's defensive woes to Real Madrid's aging backline, this summer's transfer window has been crucial. Let's delve into how these clubs are shaping up for the new season.

Manchester City

2023-24 Performance

• Points Per Game (PPG): 2.39 (1st)
• Goal Differential (GD): +62

2024-25 Performance

• PPG: 1.87 (3rd)
• GD: +28

Key Issues

• Defensive Struggles: Transition and build-up defense were major weaknesses.
• Finishing: A significant drop in set-piece goals and finishing efficiency.

Summer Transfers

• Incoming: Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan), Rayan Aït-Nouri (Wolves), Rayan Cherki (Lyon), James Trafford (Burnley), Sverre Nypan (Rosenborg)
• Outgoing: Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Kyle Walker (Burnley)

Tactical Shifts

City is banking on Rodri's return to bolster their defense and maintain ball dominance. However, the lack of significant defensive reinforcements could be a risk.

Real Madrid

2023-24 Performance

• PPG: 2.50 (1st)
• GD: +61

2024-25 Performance

• PPG: 2.21 (2nd)
• GD: +40

Key Issues

• Defensive Injuries: Multiple key defenders suffered ACL injuries.
• Aging Squad: The backline struggled with fitness and form.

Summer Transfers

• Incoming: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth), Álvaro Carreras (Benfica), Franco Mastantuono (River Plate)
• Outgoing: Luka Modric (AC Milan), Lucas Vazquez

Tactical Shifts

New manager Xabi Alonso has focused on rejuvenating the defense with young talents like Huijsen and Carreras. The attacking prowess remains intact with Mbappé, Vinícius, and Bellingham.

Leverkusen

2023-24 Performance

• PPG: 2.65 (1st)
• GD: +65

2024-25 Performance

• PPG: 2.03 (2nd)
• GD: +29

Key Issues

• Post-Perfect Season Hangover: A natural regression after an impeccable 2023-24 season.
• Build-Up Play: Opponents effectively disrupted their offensive strategies.

Summer Transfers

• Incoming: Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven), Mark Flekken (Brentford), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Ibrahim Maza (Hertha Berlin), Farid Alfa-Ruprecht (Manchester City)
• Outgoing: Florian Wirtz (Liverpool), Jeremie Frimpong (Liverpool), Jonathan Tah (Bayern Munich), Granit Xhaka

Tactical Shifts

Leverkusen is transitioning into a new era with fresh talents. The focus is on rebuilding the midfield and defense to regain their competitive edge.

Conclusion

The 2025-26 season promises to be a thrilling one as Europe's top clubs aim to address last season's shortcomings. While some have made significant strides in the transfer market, others are relying on tactical adjustments and internal development. Only time will tell if these changes will be enough to reclaim their former glory.