With domestic and European titles out of reach, Real Madrid now turn their focus to the Club World Cup—viewed as both a shot at silverware and a fresh start under new manager Xabi Alonso.
The 43-year-old has brought in Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen to reshape a squad hit hard by injuries and eclipsed by rivals Barcelona. Alonso is expected to implement a 3-4-3 system, giving Alexander-Arnold a key role on the right and looking to Jude Bellingham—who’s delaying shoulder surgery—to provide midfield balance.
Real begin Group H play against Al-Hilal (June 18), followed by Pachuca (June 22) and RB Salzburg (June 26). Though they’ve beaten all three recently, Al-Hilal—now led by Simone Inzaghi and boasting stars like Joao Cancelo and Mitrovic—pose a real threat.
The tournament also marks Alonso’s first tactical test: finding a system that fits both Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappé without sacrificing defensive stability. “I have ideas,” Alonso said. “It’s about building balance and unleashing individual brilliance.”
With Luka Modrić nearing his final games and Kroos gone, Real will lean on Alexander-Arnold’s passing range. Winning the expanded Club World Cup—along with its $135 million prize—would not only cap the season positively but mark a promising start to the Alonso era.
