José Mourinho has returned to Real Madrid as manager, with the task of dethroning Barcelona, who have secured two consecutive La Liga titles. This marks Mourinho's second spell in charge, with club president Florentino Pérez making the decision to bring him back following snap elections in June.
Real Madrid's preparations for the new season have been calm, despite a previous season that saw them finish trophyless. A significant development for the club is Vinícius Júnior signing a new six-year deal, with the club stating he has become "one of the most important players in one of the most successful periods in our history."
Mourinho will also integrate new £115m winger Yan Diomandé, who was playing in Spain's fifth tier last year, alongside established talents like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham. Other new signings include Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, and striker Carlos Espí.
The new La Liga season also sees the return of Racing Santander, Deportivo, and Málaga to the top flight after lengthy absences. Racing Santander have welcomed back Sergio Canales, while Deportivo's marquee signing is 37-year-old Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.