Real Madrid must break 'Champions curse' to defend La Liga title in 2024/25

Real Madrid's start to the 2024/25 La Liga season did not go to plan as Carlo Ancelotti's defending champions drew 1-1 at Mallorca.

Kylian Mbappe's league debut was the key focus ahead of kickoff, but the hosts did not read the script, as they dug in to secure a battling point in Palma.

Mbapp's arrival in Madrid has caused a wave of attention on the current Spanish and European champions as a throwback to their Galacticos era.

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However, a frustrating result, ahead of a demanding campaign, will be a concern for Ancelotti who admitted his team lacked balance in the Balearics.

Barcelona's opening win over Valencia means Real Madrid are already playing catch up in the title race, and if they want to retain their league crown, Ancelotti will need to break a 'La Liga curse' in Madrid.

Not winning on the opening day has been a bad omen for Real Madrid in recent seasons, as the last five times Real Madrid have failed to win their first match of a title defense, they have failed to retain the league trophy.

In three of those instances, Barcelona have gone on to win the league, with Atletico Madrid and Valencia winning one each.

Up next for Ancelotti and Real Madrid is their first home game of the season as Real Valladolid head to the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 25.