Xabi Alonso Unveils First Real Madrid Starting XI with Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, and García

Xabi Alonso has named his first starting lineup as head coach of Real Madrid. Newcomers Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and young talent Gonzalo García are all set to play in the Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Real Madrid began a new era under Xabi Alonso as they faced Al Hilal in the group stage of the Club World Cup. This match marked Alonso’s first in charge since joining from Bayer Leverkusen. He was appointed just three weeks after the La Liga season ended. Alonso shocked fans by fielding a lineup including summer signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, teen defender Dean Huijsen, and academy graduate Gonzalo García for their first official club starts. Alonso had little time to work with his new players. Due to the rapid transition following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure, he held his first training session only days before this vital fixture.

THE START OF THE ALONSO ERA

As Real Madrid entered a new chapter, the expectations were high among fans and club officials. Alonso acknowledged the good foundation left by his predecessor and praised the squad’s positive mood. Many established stars returned late from international duty, forcing Alonso to accelerate the integration of new players and young prospects into his tactical plans. The World Cup opener serves as a crucial early test. While Real Madrid is regarded as one of the trophy favorites, the presence of younger players represents a commitment to renewal and growth.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

The match against Al Hilal is just the start for Alonso’s Real Madrid. The team will look to gain momentum as they strive to win the Club World Cup before refocusing on domestic and European competitions. Real Madrid finished last La Liga season as champions and will seek to retain their title, with new additions and academy players expected to play major roles. Their immediate goal is to top their World Cup group, with future fixtures expected to further integrate new arrivals while challenging Alonso’s tactical strategy. The next league season and Champions League campaign will reflect how Alonso’s project is shaping up.