Are Real Madrid Champions League Contenders?

The quest for the Champions League crown begins yet again for Real Madrid. That elusive La Decima is the most important trophy manager Carlo Ancelotti can bring to the Bernabeu and would finally place Los Blancos on top of world football once again. Despite a humbling defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the semifinals last campaign, Madrid have reloaded and look primed to be major contenders for the title.

While Madrid have consistently made it into the knockout rounds of Europe's elite competition, they have yet to reach the final since they won the cup in 2002. The addition of Ronaldo in 2009 and Jose Mourinho in 2010 helped reinvigorate the club, propelling it back toward the top.

But perennial contender isn't the title President Florentino Perez is looking for. European champions is.

Madrid have been busy this offseason. After recognizing the stunning depth of Dortmund and Bayern Munich, Madrid have done their part to ensure the club is loaded with capable talent at every position.

By capturing the signatures of Isco, Dani Carvajal, Asier Illarramendi and Casemiro, Madrid have shown initiative to build off their solid foundation. While the new signings offer hope for the coming years, they will no doubt push for spots this season and increase the vitality of the squad.

One crucial aspect of Madrid's failure last season was in defense. Alvaro Arbeloa and Pepe showed major weaknesses throughout the season—often taking much of the blame for defensive lapses.

The implementation of Raphael Varane in the middle of last season got Madridistas excited. The 20-year-old formed a strong duo with Sergio Ramos at the back, and his development throughout the year will give Madrid a formidable back line in the later rounds of the tournament.

Dani Carvajal will likely force Arbeloa out of his starting role. The young Spaniard spent last season starring in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, offering pace on the right side of defense. In 31 league appearances, Carvajal recorded a goal and seven assists, indicating his ability to get forward, via WhoScored.com.

On the opposite side of the back line, Marcelo will take over at left-back, offering yet another valuable option going forward. The chemistry he has formed with Ronaldo over the past few years was missed greatly last campaign. 

These changes will help bolster Madrid's defense, one that is equally capable in attack.

The arrival of Carlo Ancelotti offers Madrid much in the way of tactical changes. While Los Blancos have been known for their deadly counterattacks in recent years, early signs point to more buildup play as a useful alternative.

Madrid's counter is feared around the globe. The sheer pace of Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria and Karim Benzema is enough to unlock any defense, but adding a passing-based approach makes them even harder to stop. The team looks set to enjoy greater creativity on the ball, and that should give it more options when facing tough opposition.

Of course, one cannot discuss Madrid's prospects next season without mentioning their pursuit of Gareth Bale, per Jacob Steinberg The Guardian. While the depth of attacking talent has raised questions as to Bale's necessity to the squad, there is no question that his arrival would further boost their chances at European glory.

Bale's raw athleticism and eye for goal would offer yet another option in attack, but most of all, Bale provides cover should anything happen to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward has been the focal point of Madrid's attack in recent years, and thankfully, he has been kept healthy.

When Barcelona lost Lionel Messi to injury last campaign, their offense was conspicuously lacking. While Bale is no Ronaldo, he might offer the closest replacement, capable of filling in the gap if the need arose.

All in all, Madrid have the talent across the board to match up with anybody in the world. From Sergio Ramos at the back to Ronaldo up front, nobody can boast a side with more ability. With the addition of young talent and the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid will surely contend for the Champions League crown next season.