Real Madrid: The five biggest questions going into 2021

Real Madrid like their chances of winning a second straight title with Zinedine Zidane at the helm, but they are in for a grueling battle against Atletico Madrid.

Last season, Real Madrid and Barcelona were the rivals trading punches at the top of the league table. Down the stretch of the season after the COVID-imposed “break”, Real were impeccable, and that led them to seal the title months after their home clean sheet win over Barça.

This season, Real are in what could be an even tougher race. Crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid are as good as ever defensively and now much more dangerous offensively, as Joao Felix is firing on all cylinders after the acquisition of former Barcelona man Luis Suarez.

Real Madrid beat Atleti 2-0, but Atelti are still ahead in the standings. We could be in for another La Liga title race for the ages.

There are long-term stories to consider in 2021, too, specifically around the transfer market. We know Los Blancos need to make signings for the future, and Kylian Mbappe is the superstar Madridistas yearn for the most. But is Mbappe realistic? Who are the alternatives?

Those are some of the questions to ponder as we head into a new year. Let’s take a look at five pressing questions for Real Madrid as the club gears up for what could end up being a critical year.