Real Madrid facing historic embarrassment as they close in on unwanted record in football history

Real Madrid could end up making an unwanted record. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

The scale of Real Madrid’s investment is clear when looking at the individual valuations within the squad.

Several players are among the most expensive in world football, including Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde, all of whom have a market valuation of above €100 million.

At the same time, several players have come under pressure from supporters.

Names such as Eduardo Camavinga, Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras have faced criticism during inconsistent periods this season.

PL clubs feature in high-value trophyless seasons

As such, Real Madrid are not alone in this situation. Several top clubs, particularly from England, have experienced similar campaigns where strong squad value did not lead to success.

Teams like Chelsea 2025/26 (€1.16 billion), Liverpool 2025/26 (€1.02 billion), Chelsea 2022/23 (€1.017 billion), Liverpool 2020/21 (€1.009 billion), Chelsea 2023/24 (€932.2 million) and Arsenal have all appeared in rankings of the most valuable squads to finish a season without a trophy.

Even Barcelona have faced a similar situation in the past. During a disappointing campaign under Ernesto Valverde and Quique Setien, Barcelona ended the season empty-handed despite having a squad valued at close to €1 billion.