Real Madrid Debuts Xabi Alonso Against Al-Hilal Without Mbappé

Miami, Florida – The Real Madrid soccer team makes its debut at the 2025 Club World Cup on Wednesday against Al-Hilal, with a notable change in management. Xabi Alonso, recently appointed as head coach, steps onto the field for his first match.

Due to Kylian Mbappé’s fever, Alonso has chosen Gonzalo García from the youth academy to fill the gap left by the French star. This will be García’s seventh appearance with the first team, previously scoring his first goal in an earlier Copa del Rey match against Leganés.

Until now, García had limited opportunities, making only brief appearances under former coach Carlo Ancelotti. Last season, he scored 25 goals in 36 matches for Real Madrid Castilla, leading the division. Alonso aims to utilize García’s talent in this crucial match, promising an aggressive offensive strategy.

Alonso’s decision comes as both Mbappé and fellow newcomer Endrick are sidelined due to illness and injury, respectively. Endrick’s hamstring injury leaves García as a valuable asset in the forward position.

The match will showcase García’s skills and give him a chance to prove himself to Madrid fans. Alonso is establishing a new approach, emphasizing youth and a high-scoring game. The starting lineup also features significant signings, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, who will make their debuts against Al-Hilal.

The clash takes place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Fans are eager to see if Alonso’s tactics will offer a fresh perspective compared to Ancelotti’s strategy. All eyes will be on how Gonzalo adapts to this new environment and the resulting impact on the team’s performance in the World Cup.