Real Madrid is gearing up for the FIFA Club World Cup with renewed ambition under the guidance of their new head coach, Xabi Alonso. The Spanish giants are determined to claim their first title under Alonso's leadership, viewing the tournament as a crucial opportunity to showcase their strength and strategy after a somewhat disappointing domestic season.
Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti, has already begun implementing his vision for the team. Training sessions at Real Madrid City have been intense, focusing on fitness, possession, ball movement, and pressing. While several key players like Militão, Courtois, Carvajal, Alaba, and Brahim are recovering from injuries, they have participated in parts of the training sessions, signaling a potential return during the tournament. Other players such as Rüdiger, Mendy, Endrick, and Camavinga continue their individual recovery programs, while Valverde has been working indoors.
The Club World Cup represents more than just a trophy for Real Madrid; it is a chance for Alonso to address some of the issues that plagued the team last season. Ancelotti often lamented the team's lack of balance due to an overly aggressive attack. Alonso has already hinted at adjusting Jude Bellingham's role to provide more stability in midfield. The challenge for Alonso lies in maximizing the potential of both Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe without compromising the team's defensive solidity.
Real Madrid has announced a 34-man squad for the tournament, blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents. New signings Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold are included, along with ten players from the club's B-team, demonstrating Alonso's faith in the academy. Alexander-Arnold, in particular, is expected to play a significant role, potentially in Alonso's preferred 3-4-3 formation, utilizing his exceptional passing range to fill the void left by Toni Kroos' departure. The inclusion of players recovering from injury, such as Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, provides further depth and experience.
Real Madrid's journey begins on June 18 against Al Hilal in Miami. They will then face Pachuca on June 22 in Charlotte and RB Salzburg on June 27 in Philadelphia. While Pachuca may be considered the weakest team in the group, Al Hilal, coached by Simone Inzaghi, could pose a significant threat. With a squad boasting well-known players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Joao Cancelo and Kalidou Koulibaly, Al Hilal will be aiming to cause an upset.
Alonso aims to create an ambitious and energetic team that excites the fans. He seeks to strike a balance that allows individual talents to flourish while maintaining stability and defensive strength. The Club World Cup offers him the perfect platform to implement these ideas and set the tone for his tenure at Real Madrid.
