As the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League season kicks into high gear, anticipation is building among fans eager to see which club will rise to the top of European football. One man who knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level—both as a former player and now a prominent figure in the football world—is David Beckham. And in a recent appearance on CBS Sports’ Golazo program, the former Real Madrid star shared his thoughts on Los Blancos’ chances this season, while identifying the player he believes could be central to their campaign.
Beckham began by praising the work of Real Madrid’s current head coach, Xabi Alonso. He described Alonso as the “right man for the job,” commending his leadership and the tactical clarity he has brought to the team. Alonso, a former teammate of Beckham and a Champions League winner himself, has overseen a strong start to the season and appears to have earned the trust of fans, pundits, and now, former stars of the club.
But Beckham didn’t stop there. When asked about who could make the difference for Real Madrid in Europe this season, he didn’t hesitate to single out Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior. Beckham expressed full confidence in Vinicius’ ability to be the game-changer Madrid needs on the continental stage. He urged Alonso to give the electrifying winger as many opportunities as possible, suggesting that a return to top form for Vinicius could be the spark Real Madrid needs to make a deep run in the tournament.
“Vinicius has the talent, the pace, and the mindset to win games at the highest level,” Beckham noted. “When he’s at his best, very few defenders can stop him. He’s the kind of player who can shift the momentum of an entire campaign.”
Beckham also took a moment to praise the next generation of talent emerging at the Santiago Bernabéu, stating that Real Madrid’s blend of young stars and experienced leaders gives them an edge over many rivals. With rising names like Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Eduardo Camavinga complementing established figures like Vinicius and Rodrygo, the former Galáctico believes the club is well-positioned for both short-term success and long-term dominance.
His comments reflect the broader optimism surrounding Real Madrid this season. With Alonso’s steady hand, a deep and talented squad, and the drive to reclaim European glory, the path is set for another potential Champions League run. And if Vinicius Junior can rediscover his electric best, Beckham believes that no team in Europe should be underestimated more than Real Madrid.
As always, with the Champions League, the margin between victory and defeat is razor-thin—but with stars aligned and legends backing them, Real Madrid’s ambitions this season look as strong as ever.
