The latest edition of the Club World Cup has exposed some alarming weaknesses in the Real Madrid setup. Far from the dominant force fans expected, Los Blancos looked lost, disjointed, and a shadow of their former selves. For manager Xabi Alonso, the tournament served as a reality check — and a loud one. Several key figures failed to deliver, and some rising stars crumbled under pressure. Let’s dive into four pressing issues: Rodrygo Goes, Vinícius Júnior, Antonio Rüdiger, and young Raul Asencio.
Rodrygo Goes: The Inevitable Exit
The Brazilian forward looks set to leave — not just physically, but symbolically. Rodrygo was completely absent during crucial moments, lacking impact, confidence, and clarity. Once a cornerstone of Real’s attacking trident, he now feels like a passenger waiting for the next destination. Xabi Alonso must now find a worthy replacement who brings both flair and consistency, all while navigating a competitive transfer market.
Vinícius Júnior: A Faded Star
Where is the explosive dribbler who once terrorized defenses across Europe? In this tournament, Vinícius was a ghost. He lost his edge, struggled to beat defenders, and offered little to no defensive support. Known for his flair and flair alone, Vini now seems disconnected from the team’s collective mission. For Alonso, the challenge is clear: rebuild his confidence, fine-tune his tactical discipline, and remind him that Real Madrid does not have room for passengers.
Antonio Rüdiger: From Warrior to Performer
The German center-back looked more interested in showboating than defending. Gone was the reliable enforcer — in his place stood a player obsessed with theatrical gestures and poor positioning. Rüdiger’s decisions cost the team dearly, and his lapses in concentration became far too frequent. It’s time for the coaching staff to bring him back to basics, re-focus him on the essentials, and rethink his automatic starter status.
Raul Asencio: When Youth Falters
At 22, Raul Asencio was expected to step up and solidify his status as a future mainstay. Instead, he became a symbol of Real Madrid’s defensive fragility. His blunder in the semi-final handed PSG their opening goal — a moment that shattered confidence and momentum. While talent remains undeniable, Alonso now faces a delicate task: nurturing his young defender without overexposing him, offering protection without guaranteeing forgiveness.
Time for a Reset
Between high-profile underperformers, defensive uncertainty, and a general lack of cohesion, Real Madrid stands at a crossroads. Xabi Alonso — a tactician known for his cool head — must take this collapse as a foundation for rebuilding. Redefining roles, reshaping mentalities, and restoring identity will be essential.
Perhaps this tournament won’t be remembered for its glory — but if it sparks a deeper transformation, it might become the turning point the club desperately needed. Because sometimes, the path back to greatness begins with hitting rock bottom.
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