Real Madrid’s starting lineup for their Club World Cup debut may have surfaced early, with reports suggesting Xabi Alonso has made a key selection involving Trent Alexander-Arnold.
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The Spanish side, who qualified after their Champions League triumph a few seasons ago, are set to kick off their tournament campaign against Al Hilal in Miami. ..Continue Reading
This match marks the beginning of a fresh chapter under Alonso’s leadership, following the departure of Carlo Ancelotti, and offers the new manager a shot at his first major silverware with the club.
Social media buzz has hinted at some bold lineup choices from Alonso, including the potential start for Alexander-Arnold, who recently completed his move from Liverpool and impressed during his unveiling.
Another new addition, Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, is also expected to be named in the starting eleven.
Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. are tipped to spearhead the attack as Madrid look to lay down a marker in the newly expanded tournament.
Alonso, speaking ahead of his competitive debut, shared his optimism about the squad’s direction and the positive energy within the team.
“We are starting a new stage and we have to prioritise what is important: what we want to be, how we want to play and that we feel it. We want to be able to do that from the first moment, from the match against Al Hilal. First, we must be able to recognise ourselves,” he said.
“Talking with the players has been very positive. Little by little you get to know them, you have that much-needed contact and little by little more players are arriving.”
Alexander-Arnold added: “I am no stranger to seeing Real Madrid win trophies. It’s an amazing history the club has got, and I’m joining an exciting team with a lot of potential. I am excited to get started, straight to the USA, and we want to win the Club World Cup. I am looking to have a great start.”
