Real Madrid enter the newly-expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the United States with redemption on their minds. After a disappointing domestic season, the Spanish giants—under new coach Xabi Alonso—are treating the tournament as their most important chance at silverware this year.
With Barcelona completing a domestic treble and beating Madrid four times this season, fans are hopeful Alonso’s tactical shift and fresh reinforcements will spark a revival. Here’s how Real Madrid are shaping up for their Group H matches—and why this could be a defining tournament for the club’s next era.
🧠 Alonso’s Vision: From Criticism to Creativity
The appointment of Xabi Alonso, former midfield maestro for Madrid and Liverpool, signals a change in tactical identity. Replacing Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso is expected to implement a more proactive, high-tempo 3-4-3 formation. This approach not only gives attacking width but also brings balance to a squad overloaded with forward talent.
“We want an ambitious and active game,” Alonso said recently. “We must transmit energy, excitement, and emotion to our fans.”
🚑 Injury Woes But Reinforcements Arrive
Madrid’s backline has been weakened by injuries to Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Eduardo Camavinga, but Alonso is hoping to regain some of them mid-tournament. The inclusion of new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen adds much-needed depth.
Alexander-Arnold’s £10 million early transfer from Liverpool gives Madrid a creative boost on the right, particularly after Toni Kroos’ retirement. Meanwhile, Huijsen, a recent Spain debutant, strengthens Madrid’s central defense amid a long list of absentees.
🔥 Key Fixtures: Real Madrid’s Group H Schedule
- June 18: vs Al Hilal (Miami)
- June 22: vs Pachuca (Charlotte)
- June 26: vs RB Salzburg (Philadelphia)
Al Hilal, under new coach Simone Inzaghi, pose a real challenge with star players like Mitrovic, Cancelo, and Koulibaly. Meanwhile, Pachuca, led by Salomon Rondon, are expected to be the group’s underdogs.
Madrid comfortably beat Pachuca 3-0 in the 2024 Intercontinental Cup and thrashed Salzburg 5-1 earlier this year. Still, Alonso is not taking anything for granted.
⚽ Tactical Tweaks and Squad Dynamics
Alonso’s biggest challenge is managing an ultra-talented yet unbalanced attack. With Vinicius Junior and new Galactico Kylian Mbappe needing space, the midfield structure becomes vital. Alonso plans to deploy Jude Bellingham in a deeper, more balanced midfield role to control transitions.
Luka Modric, now in the final chapter of his illustrious career, could get a fitting farewell if Madrid win the trophy. “Leaving with a title would be beautiful,” said Modric in a pre-tournament interview.
💰 Stakes Are High: $135M in Prize Money
Initially skeptical about participating, Madrid were persuaded by both pride and the staggering $135 million prize money. Xabi Alonso’s side wants to become the first club to win the expanded 32-team Club World Cup—a legacy-defining opportunity for a club that already boasts 15 European Cups.
🎯 Final Thoughts
This tournament is more than a silver lining for Real Madrid—it’s a test of Xabi Alonso’s project, squad depth, and a first glimpse at the post-Ancelotti era. If Alonso can deliver flair, structure, and silverware, it could launch a new dynasty at the Santiago Bernabéu.