Real Madrid's Club World Cup: Xabi Alonso's Unimpressive Start

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 20, 2025

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Real Madrid's Club World Cup: Xabi Alonso's Unimpressive Start Casts Shadow on Blancos' Ambitions

Real Madrid's pursuit of a record-extending eighth Club World Cup title has gotten off to a less-than-stellar start, at least from the perspective of their newly appointed manager, Xabi Alonso. While the team secured a hard-fought victory in their opening match, Alonso's tactical decisions and the team's overall performance have left many questioning whether the legendary midfielder can successfully transition from the pitch to the dugout on the biggest stage.

The initial match, though resulting in a win, showcased some troubling weaknesses within Real Madrid's gameplay. The midfield, traditionally a powerhouse for Los Blancos, appeared disjointed and lacked the usual incisive passing that defines their style. This is particularly concerning given Alonso's own celebrated career as a midfield maestro. His tactical choices, particularly in the second half, seemed reactive rather than proactive, prompting criticism from pundits and fans alike.

<h3>Tactical Flaws and Player Selection Under Scrutiny</h3>

Alonso's team selection also drew considerable attention. The omission of certain key players, and the unexpected inclusion of others, raised eyebrows. The starting eleven, while boasting considerable talent, lacked the cohesion and understanding expected of a team vying for global dominance. This suggests a potential lack of preparation or an inability to effectively utilize the squad’s depth – a critical aspect for a tournament like the Club World Cup where squad rotation is often necessary.

• Midfield Instability: The lack of control in the midfield hindered Real Madrid's ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Opponents successfully disrupted the flow of play, highlighting a vulnerability Alonso needs to address urgently.
• Offensive Inefficiency: Despite securing a victory, the team struggled to create clear-cut chances, relying heavily on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. This is a significant concern given the high standards set by previous Real Madrid teams in this competition.
• Defensive Vulnerability: While not disastrous, there were moments where the defense looked susceptible to counter-attacks, suggesting a disconnect between the backline and the midfield. This tactical weakness needs immediate attention to avoid costly mistakes in later rounds.

<h3>Can Alonso Turn Things Around? The Road Ahead</h3>

The pressure is mounting on Xabi Alonso. The early signs aren't encouraging, and any further slip-ups could significantly jeopardize Real Madrid's chances of winning the Club World Cup. The competition is fierce, and other teams are showing impressive form. Alonso needs to swiftly implement adjustments to the team’s strategy, fostering better communication and cohesion amongst the players. He needs to find a way to unlock the full potential of his squad, re-establishing the dominance Real Madrid is known for.

The coming matches will be crucial in determining whether Alonso can overcome this initial setback. His ability to adapt and implement necessary changes will be a defining factor in Real Madrid's journey in the Club World Cup. Failure to do so could cast a long shadow over his fledgling managerial career and Real Madrid’s ambitions for the season.

What are your thoughts on Xabi Alonso's start to the Club World Cup? Share your opinions in the comments below!