When was the last time Real Madrid finished a season trophyless?

Real Madrid could end what might be Carlo Ancelotti’s final season in his second tenure at the club. Despite the presence of superstar Kylian Mbappe and a roster stacked with talent, Los Blancos began the campaign with high hopes of lifting LaLiga, but those ambitions now appear unlikely.

As the most decorated club in international soccer, Real Madrid have still endured tough years throughout its storied history. Although it may seem hard to believe, even squads filled with world-class players have finished seasons without adding silverware to the club’s cabinet.

After their recent loss to Barcelona in El Clasico, Madrid now trail further in the La Liga title race. With that setback, the club risks finishing another season without a major trophy, an outcome that brings back memories of some of the darker periods in the club’s history.

When was the last time Real Madrid finished a season trophyless?

The last time Real Madrid failed to win a trophy was in the 2020–21 season under Zinedine Zidane. It was a challenging campaign across all competitions, as they were facing major changes in their lineup.

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid.

First, they were eliminated from the Copa del Rey in the Round of 32 by third-division side Alcoyano. Then, they exited the UEFA Champions League in the quarterfinals after losing to Chelsea. Finally, they finished second in La Liga, just two points behind champions Atlético Madrid.

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Real Madrid lose to Barcelona in crucial Clasico for LaLiga: Is Carlo Ancelotti leaving the club?

Prior to that, the club also endured a trophyless campaign in the 2009–10 season under Manuel Pellegrini, despite boasting a star-studded squad featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Marcelo.

Consolation prizes for Real Madrid in 2024–25

With hopes fading for a title in the Champions League, La Liga, Copa del Rey, or Supercopa de España, Real Madrid must settle for smaller victories this season, as the fans are disappointed for the recent results.

They opened the year by defeating Atalanta 2–0 to win the UEFA Super Cup, sparking early optimism. Later, they added the FIFA Intercontinental Cup with a win over Pachuca. While those trophies briefly lifted spirits, they now feel more like consolation prizes in a season that promised much more.