Rich problems at Real Madrid! Qualified for the quarterfinals of the Club World Cup after a precious victory against Juventus (1-0), the Merengues are now preparing their shock against Borussia Dortmund this Saturday (10:00 p.m.). And if the gradual return of Kylian Mbappé suggested a tenure, the hatching of Gonzalo Garcia rebat the cards for Xabi Alonso.
At 20, the young attacker promoted to Castilla fully benefits from his luck, already scoring three goals and delivering a decisive pass in this tournament. His decisive head against Juventus allowed Real to qualify, strengthening his credibility within the group. This success comes when Mbappé, still physically reduced, made a shy entry in the second half, which could delay his return as a holder.
Mbappé or Gonzalo?
The dilemma is real for Xabi Alonso. Vinícius Júnior is unbeatable on the left. There remains a single place in a diagram with two attackers, like against Juventus, or an offensive bet in trident with Mbappé and Gonzalo, at the risk of upsetting the tactical balance. Everything except an obvious choice.
The former PSG player, who remains a centerpiece of the Madrid attack with his 43 goals, all competitions, last season, sees his status called into question by this rise of the young attacker. He must now deal with unexpected internal competition and prove his physical form to win back his place.
For Xabi Alonso, freshly appointed to the Madrid bench, this duel symbolizes a first major test. Between management of Egos, pressure from President Pérez and ambition of Sacre, the Spanish coach plays big from his first international tournament with Real.
