Real Madrid Warm Up for New Season with Convincing Win

Real Madrid began their pre-season preparations in emphatic fashion on Tuesday, dispatching Leganes 4-1 in a behind-closed-doors friendly match. The victory provided valuable match fitness for Jose Mourinho's side as they gear up for the new campaign.

Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valentino opened the scoring in the 21st minute, combining with Arda Guler before slotting the ball into the bottom-left corner. After Arda Guler's initial effort was saved by Raul Fernandez, Valverde made no mistake with his follow-up chance.

"Valverde found the back of the net in the 21st minute as he combined with Guler once again before slotting into the bottom-left corner," reported the match summary.

Alexander-Arnold Shines in Creative Role

Trent Alexander-Arnold, who made 35 appearances in his debut campaign with Real Madrid last season, made a significant impact in this friendly. The English defender provided a brilliant long pass to set up Gonzalo Garcia's goal, lifting the ball over the onrushing Leganes goalkeeper.

The 27-year-old also played a crucial role in Franco Mastantuono's goal in the second half, though questions remain about his defensive capabilities after Naim Garcia's goal highlighted vulnerabilities in that area of his game.

Despite playing only 21 La Liga games last season, Alexander-Arnold provided the joint-sixth most assists (four) of any Madrid player. However, his defensive work under pressure may need improvement as the new season approaches.

Second Half Surge Secures Victory

Leganes did manage to pull a goal back before halftime through Naim Garcia, who curled beautifully into the far corner beyond Andriy Lunin's reach after cutting inside past Alexander-Arnold.

However, Los Blancos took control after the break with two goals in two minutes. Mastantuono reacted quickest to a rebound from Alexander-Arnold's initial shot, before Ruben Pulido turned a cross into his own net to complete the scoring.

Jose Mourinho made wholesale changes in the 70th minute, bringing on youth players in place of his first-team stars, and Madrid saw out the victory without conceding any further goals.

New signing Denzel Dumfries was observed watching from the stands, potentially adding to the competition for places in the defensive line.