• 25 Jun, 2025
• Faith Kegh
• comments off

Xabi Alonso Faces Key Defensive Dilemma Ahead of Club World Cup Clash with Salzburg.

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### **Xabi Alonso Faces Key Defensive Dilemma Ahead of Club World Cup Clash with Salzburg**

Real Madrid head into their final FIFA Club World Cup group-stage match against RB Salzburg needing just a draw to advance. However, the situation has become more complicated following the suspension of defender Raul Asencio, who received a red card in the previous match against Pachuca.

Asencio’s recent performances have already been under scrutiny—first for conceding a penalty against Al Hilal, and then for the red card that left Madrid with ten men against Pachuca. His absence now leaves manager Xabi Alonso with a critical decision in central defense.

Dean Huijsen, recently signed from Bournemouth, has been a standout so far and is expected to retain his place. But the question is: who will partner him?

David Alaba is still recovering from injury, and Eder Militao is not yet fully fit following a long-term ligament issue. That leaves Alonso with two main options—Aurelien Tchouameni and Antonio Rudiger.

Tchouameni has already played as a makeshift centre-back during this tournament and looked assured, both in his positioning and composure. Rudiger, meanwhile, is just returning from a muscle injury sustained in
Raul Asencio’s difficulties on the pitch have led to more than just tactical challenges for Real Madrid they’ve also stirred tension within the squad. The young defender has come under fire for his costly mistakes in both of Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup group-stage matches.

After giving away a penalty against Al Hilal and receiving a red card against Pachuca, Asencio acknowledged his poor form on social media, admitting it was a tough period and vowing to work harder.

However, it was goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois’ blunt response that made headlines. Courtois openly criticized Asencio’s actions, calling the penalty against Al Hilal “silly,” and expressing his frustration at half-time during the Pachuca match.

“It’s two games and the same mistake. We have to be smarter,” he said, in comments that have since divided opinion among fans.

Some supporters see Courtois’ reaction as necessary leadership in high-stakes football, while others believe such public criticism could harm the confidence of a young player trying to find his footing.

In contrast, midfielder Federico Valverde reportedly offered supportive words to Asencio, highlighting a more encouraging approach within the team.

How Real Madrid manages this internal dynamic balancing accountability with support could prove essential not only for Asencio’s development but also for maintaining unity in a squad aiming for another international title.

Faith Kegh

Content & Editorial Manager – Leads the creation, review, and publication of high-quality news and media content. She ensures that all editorial work reflects the organization’s standards of accuracy, professionalism, and relevance, while also engaging and informing the audience.

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