Real Madrid's Shocking Loss to Osasuna Exposes Three Critical Flaws
Real Madrid's 2–1 loss to Osasuna on Saturday revealed some harsh realities for the 15-time European champions that may impact their championship hopes.
The Whites witnessed their eight-match winning run in La Liga end abruptly at El Sadar. Álvaro Arbeloa's squad appeared lackluster, missing intensity and performing poorly throughout the evening, allowing Osasuna to secure all three points.
This setback could potentially allow Real Madrid to lose their La Liga leadership position to bitter rivals Barcelona just seven days after claiming it. With a crucial match approaching against Benfica in the Champions League knockout phase playoffs second leg, such a disappointing performance serves as a troubling preview for the Spanish powerhouse.
Here are three key takeaways from the surprising loss in Pamplona.
Dani Carvajal's Time at Real Madrid Is Coming to an End
Dani Carvajal's Era at Real Madrid Appears to Be Ending
Dani Carvajal received the starting assignment on the right side against Osasuna to provide Trent Alexander-Arnold with rest before Wednesday's Champions League encounter. Arbeloa adopted a similar strategy with Antonio Rüdiger, careful not to burden his two defenders so quickly after their injuries.
The approach was sensible from the Spanish manager, but it ultimately backfired. Carvajal was absolutely dreadful during his 64 minutes of action. The right-back appeared winded as he failed to match the game's tempo, consistently beaten during transitions. Without Federico Valverde's cover, Real Madrid could have suffered a heavier defeat.
It was surprising Carvajal remained on the field for the second half given his defensive struggles. The 34-year-old also offered no attacking threat, compelling the visitors to overcommit to the left side to their disadvantage.
It's reasonable to suggest Valverde would have been superior at right-back while resting Alexander-Arnold. Carvajal remains a club icon and six-time Champions League champion, but he appeared completely overwhelmed on Saturday. With his deal expiring this season, it wouldn't be shocking if Los Blancos part ways with their captain.
Arda Güler Fails Another Test
Arda Güler Struggles in Another Examination
Arda Güler began impressively under Xabi Alonso, contributing eight goals and assists in his initial 10 matches of 2025–26. However, as time progressed, the Turkish midfielder's form declined significantly, appearing increasingly confused when deployed in deeper midfield positions.
He excels when orchestrating attacks as a number 10 or contributing from the right wing. However, Güler lacks the ability to control play from central midfield. He cannot establish rhythm or manage games as Real Madrid requires when utilizing a 4-4-2 formation.
His precision was also questionable against Osasuna, an unusual issue for the 20-year-old. Just one of Güler's nine cross attempts reached its intended destination, and he managed only one scoring opportunity in 82 minutes.
With Jude Bellingham sidelined until possibly after the March international window, Güler's starting position remains secure, but scrutiny will intensify if he continues struggling in crucial moments.
Serious Concerns Linger for Real Madrid Ahead of Benfica Clash
Major Worries Persist for Real Madrid Before Benfica Encounter
The issues evident against Osasuna weren't novel for Real Madrid. Throughout this campaign—and much of the previous season—the team has struggled with creativity against defensive setups, satisfied with possession without meaningful penetration.
Los Blancos depend excessively on Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappé to produce brilliant moments down the left side, a concern Arbeloa addressed in his post-match comments.
"The opening period saw us maintain reasonable control at moments, but we lack sufficient pace in our approach against defensive blocks. You must either circulate the ball much quicker, or opponents will defend against you effortlessly," the coach explained.
"This remains an area requiring continuous improvement and development. We must penetrate effectively on both flanks. Currently, we concentrate most attacks on the left wing, and we need capability on the opposite side as well."
The positive aspect for Real Madrid is Alexander-Arnold's return to the right flank when Benfica visit the Bernabéu, which should provide the energy they miss when he's absent. However, one player alone cannot address the lack of intensity from the players in white, and José Mourinho's squad will be ready to capitalize on another sluggish beginning from the 15-time European champions.