Real Madrid's Dream Formation: Where Erling Haaland Would Fit in Los Blancos' Star-Studded Lineup
What previously appeared to be an unlikely fantasy of securing Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland for the Bernabéu is now becoming increasingly feasible as Real Madrid experiences a dramatic downturn in performance.
The 15-time European titleholders find themselves navigating through a turbulent transformation period. Over the past two seasons, the organization has parted ways with iconic figures Toni Kroos, Luka Modrić and Carlo Ancelotti, welcomed stars like Kylian Mbappé and Trent Alexander-Arnold, brought in Xabi Alonso as manager before dismissing the Spanish tactician after merely seven months in charge.
Adding to their troubles, Los Blancos face the prospect of concluding the 2025–26 campaign empty-handed while struggling to secure the future of star winger Vinicius Junior. Contract extension discussions with the Brazilian have stalled over the past year, with both sides remaining at odds regarding his reported wage expectations.
The uncertainty surrounding Vinicius Jr's future, coupled with his notable dip in performance, has fueled rumors of a potential marquee acquisition arriving in the Spanish capital should he choose to depart when his deal expires in 2027. No transfer would be more sensational than luring Haaland away from the Etihad Stadium.
Certainly, numerous challenges stand in the way of such a move, notably the Norwegian's extended contract with Man City running until 2034. However, if there's one area where Real Madrid excels, it's convincing the world's premier talents to wear their legendary white jersey.
Here's how Los Blancos might be structured should this ultimate fantasy transfer materialize.
Partnership With Kylian Mbappé
Partnership With Kylian Mbappé
Should Vinicius Jr depart the Bernabéu, nothing would prevent Haaland and Kylian Mbappé from forming a formidable attacking duo. Having two of football's most lethal finishers operating together would create an enormous challenge for any defensive unit across Spain and Europe.
Haaland's commanding presence in the penalty box would not only pull defenders away from Mbappé but would also provide the French star with a dominant aerial target for combination play rather than constantly seeking to complete moves single-handedly.
The Spanish powerhouse would be ideally positioned to utilize a 4-4-2 formation to maximize this partnership. Jude Bellingham would continue his duties on the left flank of midfield for Los Blancos, with Rodrygo earning his place on the right wing. Both creative forces are generous and inventive in attacking areas, perfectly suited to supply service to either Mbappé or Haaland.
The optimal midfield setup for Real Madrid would feature a fresh acquisition to properly fill the void left by Kroos's departure, but currently, Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni would control the central areas, positioned ahead of a defensive line featuring Álvaro Carreras, Dean Huijsen, Éder Militão and Trent Alexander Arnold.
Thibaut Courtois, who has engaged in numerous duels with Haaland over the years, would feel relieved knowing he would no longer need to face the prolific striker.
Lone Striker
Lone Striker
An alternative approach for Real Madrid would involve implementing a 4-2-3-1 system, allowing Haaland complete freedom as the central striker. The Norwegian international thrives when operating independently and possesses the physical attributes and clinical finishing to spearhead any elite team's offensive efforts.
Employing a genuine center-forward would address numerous attacking deficiencies for Los Blancos. At last, they would have a player consistently making penetrating runs into the box and always positioned to capitalize on precise deliveries from Alexander-Arnold or Bellingham.
With Haaland serving as the primary striker, Mbappé would regain the flexibility to return to his preferred role—once again, presuming Vinicius Jr's departure from the club. The 27-year-old would enjoy the territory and liberty to dominate the left flank, gladly relinquishing his pressing responsibilities.
Haaland would finally experience relief from the scoring pressure he carries at Man City, sharing it with teammates of comparable caliber. Surrounded by Mbappé on the left, Rodrygo on the right, and Bellingham operating as the attacking midfielder, the striker would be supported by more match-winners and goal threats than at any point in his career.