Quick Read
- Real Madrid faces Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup quarter-final.
- Xabi Alonso faces tough lineup decisions, including whether to start Kylian Mbappé.
- Rodrygo might leave the club amid transfer rumors linking him to Arsenal.
- Young striker Gonzalo García shines in the tournament, attracting Chelsea’s interest.
- Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham risk suspension with another yellow card.
Real Madrid is set to face Borussia Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This highly anticipated clash marks another chapter in Real Madrid’s storied history in international competitions. Under the leadership of head coach Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos are just three matches away from potentially securing their first major silverware of the season. The encounter also serves as a rematch of the 2024 UEFA Champions League final, where Real Madrid emerged victorious.
Key Lineup Decisions for Xabi Alonso
Head coach Xabi Alonso faces a series of challenging decisions regarding his starting lineup. The team’s back-three formation has proven effective in recent matches, but injuries and returning players add complexity to Alonso’s choices. Thibaut Courtois is expected to continue in goal, a consistent presence for Real Madrid. The defensive trio will likely include Antonio Rüdiger, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Dean Huijsen. Tchouaméni, primarily a midfielder, has adapted remarkably well to a center-back role, showcasing his versatility.
In midfield, Federico Valverde has been a standout performer, earning the captain’s armband in recent matches. Jude Bellingham, despite playing through a shoulder injury, remains a pivotal figure. Turkish sensation Arda Güler has also impressed, linking play effectively in tight spaces. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fran García are expected to occupy the wing-back positions, providing both defensive stability and attacking width.
In the attacking department, Gonzalo García has emerged as a key player, scoring three goals in four matches during the tournament. His form may keep superstar Kylian Mbappé on the bench as the Frenchman continues to regain full fitness after recovering from illness. Vinícius Júnior, on the other hand, has been in stellar form, contributing both offensively and defensively under Alonso’s system.
Transfer Rumors Surrounding Rodrygo and Gonzalo García
While Real Madrid focuses on the Club World Cup, transfer speculation continues to swirl around the club. Forward Rodrygo has been linked with a potential move away from the Santiago Bernabéu. Reports suggest that the club is open to offers in the range of €80-90 million, with Arsenal among the interested parties. Concerns about Rodrygo’s motivation during training and inconsistent performances last season have fueled these rumors.
Meanwhile, Gonzalo García, the young striker who has impressed at the Club World Cup, has attracted interest from Chelsea. Despite limited appearances in LaLiga, García’s performances in the tournament have caught the eye of several clubs. However, Xabi Alonso is reportedly keen to retain the 21-year-old, viewing him as a valuable asset for the team’s future.
The Opposition: Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund arrives at this stage after defeating Monterrey in the round of 16. Led by head coach Niko Kovač, the German side boasts a strong squad, although they will be without Jobe Bellingham, who is suspended for this match. Dortmund has remained unbeaten in the tournament so far, adding to the challenge for Real Madrid.
Historically, Real Madrid has had the upper hand against Dortmund, winning their last three encounters, including the 2024 UEFA Champions League final. However, Alonso’s side will need to be cautious, especially with key players like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham one yellow card away from suspension.
Looking Ahead
The match is scheduled to take place at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, July 5th, with favorable weather conditions expected. A victory would set up a semi-final clash against either Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich, two formidable opponents. For Xabi Alonso, this tournament represents an opportunity to establish his credentials as Real Madrid’s head coach and to bring home a prestigious trophy.
As Real Madrid prepares for this crucial encounter, the blend of youth and experience in the squad, coupled with Alonso’s tactical acumen, could prove decisive in their quest for glory.