Real Madrid kick off La Liga with youthful squad amid injury woes

The Whites will take to the pitch on Tuesday night, with new manager Xabi Alonso unveiling a squad that blends fresh signings with emerging talent, though notable absences cast a shadow.

Alonso, the former Tolosa tactician, will be without Eduardo Camavinga, Endrick, Jude Bellingham, and Ferland Mendy, all sidelined by injuries. Antonio Rudiger also misses out, serving the final match of his suspension.

However, the spotlight falls on 18-year-old academy gem Thiago Pitarch, who earns a place in the squad. The young midfielder, recently handed a contract extension, made his senior debut in a pre-season friendly against Tirol. Having started pre-season with Alvaro Arbeloa's Castilla side, Pitarch quickly caught Alonso's eye and joined first-team training.

"They're a talented group, and Thiago has shown he's ready to step up," Alonso said at a press conference. "We're building something special, but we know injuries are part of the game. We'll adapt."

The squad features all of Real Madrid's summer signings, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose arrival has bolstered the defence. Fans are eager to see how Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior gel upfront, with the duo expected to lead the attack alongside Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz.

Youngster Franco Mastantuono also makes the cut, adding flair to the forward line.

Real Madrid Squad for Osasuna Clash

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, Sergio Mestre

Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Marco Asencio, Jacobo Carreras, Fran Garcia, Dean Huijsen

Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Arda Guler, Dani Ceballos, Thiago Pitarch

Forwards: Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo Goes, Gonzalo Garcia, Brahim Diaz, Franco Mastantuono

Recent updates from Real Madrid's official X account confirm the club's excitement for the new season, posting: "Ready to start La Liga with passion and pride at the Bernabeu! #HalaMadrid." Meanwhile, posts on X from fans highlight anticipation for Pitarch's potential breakthrough, with one user noting, "Thiago Pitarch could be our next midfield star. Big call from Alonso!"

Osasuna, known for their dogged defending, will pose a stern test, but Real Madrid have the depth and quality to start strongly. With Alonso's tactical nous and a blend of youth and experience, the Whites are poised to make a statement.

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